UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has voiced concerns about the current Brexit deal, stating that it does not adequately serve Britain’s interests. Burnham argues that the agreement has weakened the country’s economy and complicated efforts to manage irregular migration. Despite his criticisms, he ruled out making significant changes to the UK’s relationship with the European Union during the current parliamentary term.
Burnham contends that the form of Brexit delivered is harsher than what was promised to voters in the 2016 referendum. According to Burnham, the existing arrangements have not fulfilled anticipated benefits, particularly in areas such as economic performance and immigration control. He expressed a desire for the UK to potentially rejoin the EU in his lifetime but emphasized that any decision should reflect the public’s wishes. Currently, he is not advocating for EU membership but is focusing on practical improvements to the existing arrangements.
On the issue of immigration, Burnham highlighted that leaving the EU has made it more challenging to return individuals who enter the UK irregularly. He also supports proposed stricter settlement rules for foreign workers, advocating that permanent residency should be earned rather than automatically granted.
Burnham pointed out that the upcoming UK-EU summit on November 20 presents an opportunity to negotiate agreements that could benefit British food manufacturers and other businesses impacted by Brexit-related trade barriers.
These remarks come amid political pressure on the government regarding its European strategy. Some Labour representatives from Brexit-supporting constituencies are concerned that reopening the debate could provide rival parties with political leverage. Burnham reassured that there would be no attempt to rerun the Brexit referendum, stressing that any future relationship with the EU should be determined by voters.
Additionally, he dismissed the idea of an early general election and emphasized that the forthcoming budget should aim to deliver greater economic stability for households and businesses.