Britain ‘in talks with EU’ about return to freedom of movement
Britain is reportedly discussing options with the EU that could eventually include a return to freedom of movement, as the government explores closer ties ahead of a summit next month. The issue has resurfaced after Andy Burnham said it could feature in Labour’s next election manifesto, while the prime minister said Brexit had not delivered as promised and expressed a wish for Britain to rejoin the EU during his lifetime.
The prime minister has ruled out restoring freedom of movement without a referendum and said the UK will not rejoin the EU during this Parliament. Current government red lines also exclude returning to the single market or customs union. At the Brussels summit in late November, the UK hopes to progress an agreement on food and drink standards and secure a carve-out from the EU’s Made in Europe scheme; Burnham said there would be no early general election.
In short
- The UK is reportedly discussing closer ties with the EU.
- Freedom of movement could feature in Labour’s next manifesto.
- The prime minister says a referendum would be needed.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters could argue that closer ties, potentially including freedom of movement, would make it easier for people to live, work and study across Europe and help businesses recruit and trade. They may see it as a practical response to Brexit’s shortcomings and say any major change should be put to voters, as the prime minister has proposed.
The case against
Opponents could argue that restoring freedom of movement would weaken the UK’s ability to set its own immigration rules, a key reason many voters supported Brexit. They may also say reopening this question risks renewed political division and that closer cooperation should focus on specific areas such as food standards without reversing a central Brexit choice.
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