Prime Minister admits Brexit deal fails to protect British economy

Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated on Monday that the current Brexit deal is not good enough for Britain. Speaking on Good Morning Britain, he argued that the separation from the European Union has weakened the national economy and failed to control immigration as promised during the referendum campaign.

Burnham described the outcome as a harder Brexit than originally proposed. He noted that the UK can no longer send people back to Europe in the same manner as before, which he said has contributed to the rise in small boats crossing the Channel. The Prime Minister supported the Home Secretary’s plan to require foreign workers to wait 15 years for permanent residency, citing the principle that settlement is a right to be earned rather than granted automatically.

When asked directly if he wanted Britain to rejoin the EU, Burnham said he would like to see it happen in his lifetime but refused to move ahead of public opinion. He emphasized that the British public must remain in charge of the decision. He clarified that he is not proposing rejoining the bloc in the current parliament but wants to take practical steps to make the existing arrangement work better.

Concerns exist among Labour MPs from leave-voting constituencies in northern England and the Midlands. They fear that reopening the debate could provide opportunities for Reform UK. Burnham addressed the 65% leave vote in his Makerfield constituency by stating he would not rerun the referendum. He said the people of Makerfield would decide what happens next, but he intended to use his position to improve the current arrangements.

The Prime Minister ruled out calling an early general election despite polling that suggests Labour is still enjoying a popularity boost. He told listeners to put the idea of a vote out of their minds for the time being. He also commented on the upcoming budget, saying it would offer breathing space for people and businesses.

Burnham expressed hope that a UK-EU summit scheduled for November 20 could produce a deal beneficial to British food manufacturers. He noted that these businesses have been hit hard by Brexit. He concluded his assessment by saying the economy needs light at the end of the tunnel, a sentiment he tied to the practical changes he plans to implement.

The Prime Minister’s remarks come as his government attempts to balance its electoral promises with the practical realities of border control. He maintained that while he would not move away from the red lines in the Labour manifesto, the current setup requires adjustment to be effective for the nation.