Andy Burnham says Russia interfered in 2016 Brexit referendum from London

U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said in London that Russia interfered with the 2016 European Union referendum. The statement highlights ongoing threats to democratic votes across European nations.

His remarks came during excerpts from “The Rest is Politics” podcast released Sunday. The full podcast episode is scheduled to drop on Monday.

Burnham took office in July. He asked advisers if Russia interfered in the vote.

“I’ve had the clear answer that yes, there was. These things are important now to put clearly on the record and I believe help voters in Germany and France understand that some of this politics is instigated via our enemies, namely Russia.”

Russia has long said it does not meddle in other countries’ elections or referendums.

Intelligence agencies in London warn about threats to British democratic institutions. This is believed to be the first public acknowledgment by a prime minister.

Burnham met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz last week in Berlin. The leaders discussed possible links between Russia and the Alternative for Germany party.

“You know he was saying to me that the AfD are clearly linked to Russia, funded I believe. There is certainly misinformation, disinformation that is emanating from Russia into German politics.”

The Intelligence and Security Committee in Parliament examined the vote in 2020. It found the government failed to fully assess Russian state-run media and troll accounts.

Parliamentary committees review national intelligence findings to oversee government actions. These panels publish reports on security risks.

Ministers in London continue to review past national security evaluations.