Andy Burnham says EU freedom of movement "had very significant challenges associated with it"

Prime Minister Andy Burnham is facing questions about his position on Britain’s future ties with the European Union after calling for an open discussion about possibly restoring EU freedom of movement. Downing Street said he was not favoring any outcome and denied a policy reversal after he earlier appeared open to a public vote on the issue. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood told Parliament the discussion had not been finalized as policy. Burnham has ruled out rejoining within this Parliament and said he would not restore freedom of movement without a referendum, while planning a Nov. 20 Brussels summit with EU officials. In that context, he told the Sunday Times he wanted a fact-based debate and acknowledged the earlier system had posed major difficulties. He also said he could not imagine recommending Schengen membership or adopting the euro.