Burnham sets 2029 date for EU move vote

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated that the public will likely decide on a return to free movement with the European Union by 2029. He stated that a factual debate is needed before any new terms are agreed upon.

Burnham told the Sunday Times that the country needs an evidence-based conversation about its future ties with Brussels. He noted that European migration patterns have changed over the last ten years. He described the old system as a revolving door where people would arrive and then leave.

The prime minister has previously discussed several options for a new relationship. These include full EU membership, joining the single market, or entering a customs union. Each of these paths requires Britain to accept rules set by the EU. Burnham said a new deal could mean the UK goes all the way to rejoin the bloc.

This approach conflicts with Labour’s 2024 election manifesto. That document set red lines against returning to free movement, single market membership, or the customs union. Because of these prior commitments, a fundamental change to the relationship is expected to wait until after the next general election.

Burnham will meet EU leaders at a summit in Brussels on 20 November. He argued that free movement offered reciprocal benefits for Britons. He specifically cited the value of young people gaining experience by living in Europe.

The prime minister acknowledged that freedom of movement had challenges. However, he suggested the current situation differs from the past decade. The next general election is expected by 2029, which sets the timeline for this potential shift.