Labour Grapples with Post-Brexit Immigration Debate

Andy Burnham challenges the current immigration narrative, stating he does not propose a return to free movement. He believes the nation needs to confront how immigration has changed since the Brexit vote, noting, "I do believe that we should have an honest discussion with people about how immigration has changed since the Brexit vote because the shorter term migration of people coming from Europe and then going back has been replaced with long term settlement in bigger numbers."

This position directly contrasts with the Labour leader's firm commitment to manifesto red lines. Those lines explicitly rule out returning to the customs union, single market, or free movement for the duration of this Parliament.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood unveiled a tightening of immigration rules on Monday. Mahmood affirmed, "What I am keen on is abiding by our manifesto."

Mahmood also warned of "significant issues" with free movement. She stated, "The Prime Minister has himself recognised that there were significant issues with the free movement of people, and that should also be part of the debate that we're going to have as a country about our Brexit settlement and what we do for the future."

The Prime Minister ordered ministers to keep their views on free movement under wraps. He stated he would not "run ahead of public opinion" on Britain’s future relationship with the EU, adding, "The public need to be the boss when it comes to whatever happens with Brexit."

The UK lost access to EU-wide databases after Brexit. This impacts its ability to manage migration. Mahmood claims losing access to these databases had a "very significant impact on us and our ability to manage migration into this country."

Burnham claims leaving the EU has meant more "long-term settlement in bigger numbers." This has led to more illegal migration because data can no longer be shared with European partners.

Government policy will explore options for the long-term relationship with the EU. These options are for consideration in the next Parliament. A draft text for a food and agriculture deal has circulated among EU members, alongside similar documents on emissions trading and youth mobility plans.

The Prime Minister intends to lock in deals on food and drink, emissions trading, and a youth mobility scheme at a Brussels summit on November 20. Meanwhile, Andy Burnham is scheduled to attend the opening ceremony for the Commonwealth heads of government meeting in Antigua.