Andy Burnham seeks closer EU ties in London after Russian meddling
Prime Minister Andy Burnham addressed lawmakers in London on Monday regarding Russian interference in European democratic politics. He argued that the U.K. must urgently build closer ties with the European Union. Burnham stated that the status quo is not good enough.
Burnham pointed to Moscow’s campaign of hybrid attacks. He noted efforts by Russia to destabilize democracies and interfere in votes. Those votes included the 2016 membership referendum.
Burnham spoke directly to members of the House of Commons. He said failing to seek stronger ties with the 27-nation bloc would be a dereliction of duty. Britain formally left the bloc in 2020.
The remarks followed Burnham’s speech to the Labour Party annual conference last month. He stated then that departure from the bloc has done more harm than good. He added that the current bare-bones trade deal holds Britain back.
Burnham stated he will seek political consensus on a new relationship. Future options include rejoining the bloc. The U.K. and the EU announced Monday that they will hold a summit in Brussels on Nov. 20.
Burnham said the two sides will discuss several key items:
- A trade deal for food and drink
- Agreements on energy and emissions trading
- A new youth experience scheme and deeper co-operation on immigration
The prime minister said Britain needs a serious dialogue about long-term relationship options. He said that conversation must happen to promote growth and uphold security.
Both Conservative and Labour governments had avoided reopening the debate for years. Burnham remains bound by the pledge of his Labour predecessor, Keir Starmer. That pledge bars rejoining the single market or customs union.
That position could change before the next national election. That vote must take place by 2029. EU leaders welcomed the warmer tone from London but remain cautious.
The Brussels summit was initially scheduled for July. Officials delayed the meeting because of disputes over made in Europe rules. Britain said those rules would hurt domestic producers.
Burnham spoke Sunday on “The Rest is Politics” podcast. He said he asked advisers in July if Russia interfered in the 2016 vote. His advisers answered yes.
Government officials later clarified that Moscow’s attempts to interfere were unsuccessful. Spokesman Tom Wells said the government considers the 2016 result legitimate.
Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch pressed Burnham for evidence of Russian interference in the referendum. Burnham told lawmakers Russian actors sought to interfere in the 2019 election. He said it was inconceivable that 2019 was the first time.
Russia has long said it does not meddle in foreign votes. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called Burnham’s claim outrageous. Farage stated at a Monday news conference that the Russia hoax has run through the entire issue.
The House of Commons serves as the primary elected chamber of the U.K. Parliament in London. Members debate legislation and question the prime minister on foreign policy matters.
Burnham became prime minister in July.
