Since becoming Prime Minister, Andy Burnham has spoken openly about giving up the hard-fought freedoms we gained through leaving the European Union.

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In a recent interview with The Sunday Times, Burnham said there should be an ‘honest discussion’ on returning to freedom of movement – meaning immigration from EU countries – or potentially rejoining the Single Market and Customs Union.

The UK faces significant challenges, from tough economic headwinds to persistent inflation and mounting debt, and wasting time and political capital reopening the debate on Britain’s decision to leave the EU should not be the Government’s overriding focus. This is another classic example of Labour’s insular approach to government, under a model which ignores the priorities of British people and focuses entirely on the internal politics of the Labour Party.

The Budget, for example, should have been the moment Burnham seized the day and demonstrated to the public he was serious about tackling the issues we face. It’s safe to say he and his Chancellor left everyone feeling underwhelmed.

John Healey’s Budget deferred the hard decisions, failed to deliver economic growth, increased borrowing, and put up taxes on working people. Healey also failed to deliver on his promise to increase........

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