Andy Burnham says he is open to a return of EU free movement despite Labour's manifesto ruling it out

The Prime Minister wants a 'very factual, quite evidence-based debate' on free movement, which full EU membership or single-market access would require. He argues migration in the EU years was 'revolving door', mostly young people staying a few years then going home. Labour's 2024 manifesto ruled out free movement, the single market and a customs union. Burnham is to meet Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels on November 20.

Burnham admits free movement 'had very significant challenges' but says today's migration is harder.

He claims the ease of free movement 'worked for British people as well'.

Any fundamental shift in EU ties is expected to come only after the next general election.