Is Andy Burnham all over the place on Brexit?

The News Agents

Tuesday, 27 October 2026 - 41 minutes

Andy Burnham clearly likes talking about Brexit. This weekend, he said he would welcome an "honest discussion" about the prospect of returning to freedom of movement with the EU. Yesterday, he was reiterating that he'd like to see us rejoining in his lifetime - though insisted that "the public are the bosses". But despite the warm words, it's not actually clear what he's proposing. And, indeed, Downing Street had to come forward to clarify that the PM isn't 'proposing' a return to freedom of movement - or indeed any other particular option - at this stage. Should Burnham be a bit clearer about what outcome he actually wants? Would moving closer to the EU be the easiest way to get some more growth into the economy? Or is there method in the vague position he currently occupies?

Later, on the eve of the Budget, Darren Jones - intensely involved in the Budgets of Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves - speaks to Jon and Emily about the challenges ahead for the Treasury, and how Labour can "meet the moment" in a perilous political climate.

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