Prime Minister: Brexit deal insufficient, economy weakened
Andy Burnham claims the post-referendum arrangement has failed to deliver on promises and hindered immigration control, though he rules out rejoining the EU in the current legislative term.
By Ruben Morales ·
Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated on Monday that the current Brexit arrangement is not good enough for Britain and has weakened the national economy. Speaking on Good Morning Britain, he argued that the deal has not unfolded as predicted during the referendum campaign. He described the outcome as a harder Brexit than what was proposed to voters.
Burnham said the departure from the European Union has complicated immigration management. He noted that the UK can no longer return individuals to Europe in the same manner as before. This change, he argued, has contributed to the rise in the small boats crisis across the Channel.
When asked directly if he wants Britain to rejoin the EU, Burnham said he would like to see that happen in his lifetime. However, he clarified that he is not proposing to move ahead of public opinion. He stated, “I am not going to dictate in terms of my own opinions here, you have to make sure that the British public are the bosses.”
The Prime Minister ruled out major structural changes in the current parliament. He said he would not move away from the red lines in Labour’s manifesto. While he acknowledged the need for practical steps to make the arrangement work better, he emphasized that rejoining the EU is still far off in the current political timeline.
Burnham addressed concerns from Labour MPs representing constituencies that voted to leave. He noted that 65 percent of his constituents in Makerfield voted for departure. He said he would not rerun the referendum but would allow the public to decide on the future direction. He added, “The British public, the people of Makerfield, will be the bosses here.”
He expressed hope that the UK-EU summit scheduled for 20 November could produce a beneficial agreement. Burnham specifically mentioned British food manufacturers, who he said have been hit hard by the new trade rules. He also supported the Home Secretary’s plan to require foreign workers to wait 15 years for permanent residency.
On the upcoming budget, Burnham said it would provide breathing space for people and businesses. He claimed the measures would offer a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel. He also ruled out calling an early general election, stating that people may as well put that out of their mind.
Source: The Guardian
