No 10 appears to backtrack on PM's freedom of movement referendum suggestion
The PM says he wants to start a conversation about potential options for the UK's future relationship with the EU.
By BBC News
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he wants an “honest discussion” about the possibility of restoring freedom of movement between the UK and European Union.
The comments have prompted questions over whether Labour could support a referendum on the issue, after the Prime Minister suggested that a future relationship with Brussels could include joining the EU single market or even rejoining the bloc.
However, sources told the BBC that no decision had been made on whether a public vote would be required before freedom of movement could be introduced.
Asked whether he could bring back freedom of movement without a referendum, Mr Burnham replied “no”. He has also said that any major change to the UK’s relationship with the EU would need a mandate at a general election, which is due by 2029.
The Prime Minister is understood to oppose any rapid move towards restoring freedom of movement. Labour’s 2024 election manifesto ruled out returning to freedom of movement, as well as membership of the EU single market and customs union.
Mr Burnham said the Government wanted to examine a range of options for the UK’s future relationship with the EU, from making no changes to closer forms of cooperation.
Joining the single market would require accepting freedom of movement, while full EU membership would involve a separate decision by voters.
The issue was central to the 2016 Brexit referendum and remains politically sensitive within Labour. Any changes to the Government’s current position would therefore have to be addressed after the next general election.