Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has called for an "honest discussion" regarding the state of immigration between the United Kingdom and the European Union. Burnham’s comments come as the UK continues to navigate the post-Brexit landscape, which ended the automatic right of free movement for citizens between the two regions.

Burnham, who has previously suggested that the UK might eventually consider rejoining the European Union, argues that the current approach to immigration requires a fresh assessment. His proposal centers on the idea that the public and policymakers should openly evaluate how migration patterns have shifted since the UK’s departure from the bloc. While Burnham has not proposed an immediate policy change, his remarks highlight a growing desire among some political figures to revisit the terms of the UK’s relationship with the EU, particularly concerning the movement of people.

The discussion remains in the early stages, with no formal legislative proposals currently on the table. Burnham’s stance reflects a broader, ongoing debate within British politics about the long-term economic and social consequences of Brexit. Supporters of such a discussion argue that the current system is not functioning optimally, while critics of re-evaluating free movement often point to the 2016 referendum result as a mandate to maintain strict border controls. As of now, the UK government has not indicated a willingness to reopen negotiations on free movement, maintaining that the current post-Brexit arrangements are settled.