Andy Burnham Suggestion of Future EU Referendum Possible in Labour Manifesto
Andy Burnham indicated to the BBC that a future Labour election manifesto could potentially include a proposal for a new in-out referendum on the European Union, although he stated a referendum is not appropriate at the current time.
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According to BBC UK, Andy Burnham stated that it is possible for a future Labour election manifesto to contain a promise regarding a new in-out referendum on the European Union. During an interview with BBC political editor Chris Mason, Burnham responded affirmatively when asked if including such a referendum in a future Labour manifesto was a possibility, saying that things are possible. He further expressed the view that the current situation is not adequate.
However, the prime minister informed the BBC that holding a referendum would not be the correct action at this present moment, while asserting that the UK needs to examine the various choices for its connection with the EU because the current state of affairs is insufficient.
This discussion follows a pledge made by Burnham during his Labour conference speech on Tuesday to explore closer ties with the bloc at a summit scheduled for later this year. This potential shift could create a significant division during the next general election, with the Conservatives potentially criticizing Burnham for attempting to restart debates from the Brexit period.
Prior to his return to Parliament as a candidate in the Makerfield by-election, Burnham had stated that he was not intending to revisit Brexit arguments and had not proposed that the UK consider rejoining the EU. When questioned about potentially reviving divisive arguments concerning EU rejoining, the PM clarified that he was not proposing such a move, but rather that in the context of a 10-year plan for Britain, the nation must consider its options regarding its future relationship. He specified that this consideration is about broad options for the relationship now, long before anything is presented to the public.
These potential options mentioned included maintaining the status quo, establishing a closer relationship similar to those discussed by the EU and Canada, or rejoining the EU customs union. Burnham emphasized, though, that moving directly to a proposal and a referendum on this matter would not be appropriate right now.
Earlier, when asked on BBC Radio 4's Today whether he wanted the UK to rejoin the EU, Burnham indicated a desire to
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