A senior cabinet minister has defended the prime minister’s call for an open discussion on reviving free movement with the EU, framing it as a pragmatic approach—but the proposal has already sparked unease among some Conservative MPs from traditionally loyal "red wall" constituencies. The prime minister’s shift in stance, explicitly ruling out an automatic rejection of free movement in future EU negotiations, marks a notable departure from past hardline positions. While figures like Angela Rayner have voiced support for the idea, the move risks alienating backbenchers who have long opposed any concessions on sovereignty or migration. The debate now centers on whether the government’s flexibility will strengthen its hand in Brussels or deepen divisions at home.
Cabinet minister says PM’s plea is ‘pragmatism’ but comments risk causing concern among some red wall MPsAndy Burnham’s call for the UK to consider a return to free movement with Europe has been backed by senior cabinet ministers including Angela Rayner but risks causing concern among fellow red wall MPs.The prime minister made his plea for an “honest discussion” about free movement in an interview with the Sunday Times, making clear that staying out of it would no longer be a red line in talks with the EU. Continue reading...
