Burnham sets 2029 deadline for EU movement vote

Andy Burnham has stated that a public decision on restoring free movement with the European Union will likely occur after the next general election.

Labour’s 2024 election manifesto ruled out returning to the single market, joining the customs union, or restoring free movement. Burnham has maintained that the party stands by those red lines. Consequently, a fundamental reset of the UK-EU relationship is not expected before the 2029 election.

In an interview with the Sunday Times, the prime minister described the path forward as a "very factual, quite evidence-based debate." He noted that while free movement had "very significant challenges," the nature of migration has shifted over the last ten years. He argued that the "revolving door" pattern of short-term movement differs from long-term settlement.

Burnham has previously said a new deal could see the UK go "all the way" and rejoin the EU. Other options he has discussed include entering the single market or the customs union, both of which require accepting EU rule-setting. He pointed to the reciprocal benefits for British citizens, particularly young people seeking to live in Europe, as a key factor in the calculus.

The prime minister will meet EU leaders at a summit in Brussels on 20 November. This meeting serves as the next scheduled step in his effort to define a new bilateral framework.