Downing Street clarifies PM's comments on EU freedom of movement

Downing Street moved to clarify the Prime Minister's position on European Union immigration rules after statements in the weekend appeared to suggest a return to freedom of movement. The clarification followed a series of interviews that left the public uncertain about how close the UK might move to Brussels.

A government spokesperson stated that the Prime Minister was not proposing a return to freedom of movement or any specific policy option. She explained that he is calling for an honest discussion about what kind of long-term relationship with Europe is best for Britain. The spokesperson emphasized that the Prime Minister is not leaning toward any particular outcome and that the final decision will rest with the British public.

The focus for now is on the UK-EU summit scheduled for 20 November. The spokesperson noted that the government hopes to make practical arrangements at the summit that will add billions to the economy. She added that the government is not yet at the stage of confirming whether the public would vote on proposals for the UK to move closer to the EU.

When asked if the Prime Minister accepted that returning to freedom of movement would mean Britain lost control over legal migration, the spokesperson said he is not setting out a concrete position. She reiterated that he wants to have a conversation with the British public about the long-term future with the European Union.

In an interview with the Sunday Times, Andy Burnham indicated that staying out of free movement would no longer be a red line in discussions about moving closer to the EU. On Monday, he ruled out rejoining the EU within the current parliament. He said he could fight the next general election on a promise to take the UK back into the EU, though he stated he would not move away from the red lines in the Labour manifesto.

Burnham told journalists he would not allow the UK to join the EU freedom of movement scheme without a referendum. He said he wants to see the UK rejoin the EU in his lifetime but will not move ahead of the public. He emphasized that the British public must be the bosses in this process.

Challenged on how his constituents in Makerfield would feel, given that 65% voted to leave the EU, Burnham said he would not rerun the referendum. He said the people of Makerfield will decide what happens in relation to Brexit. He also ruled out an early general election on a manifesto change, telling listeners to put that out of their minds.