Mahmood cites past problems with EU free movement as Burnham urges debate on ties

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood warned that the UK had faced “significant issues” with EU freedom of movement, adding a cautionary note to Andy Burnham’s call for an “honest discussion” about the country’s relationship with the EU. The exchange highlights divisions and uncertainty within Labour over whether closer EU ties could ease immigration pressures, while the Government seeks to keep ministers’ public comments aligned.

Mahmood said Brexit had reduced the UK’s access to EU-wide databases, affecting its ability to manage migration. Burnham argued that migration from Europe had shifted from shorter stays to longer-term settlement in greater numbers, and said he was not proposing an immediate return to free movement or promising to run ahead of public opinion. The Prime Minister has said ministers should explore options for the long-term EU relationship after an upcoming EU-UK summit, with the choices to be presented to the public later.