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Tory Brexit was ‘harder’ than promised in EU referendum, says Andy Burnham

Politics · 28 October 2026

Tory Brexit was ‘harder’ than promised in EU referendum, says Andy Burnham
Image: The Guardian World

Andy Burnham has cautioned government ministers against voicing their opinions on the future of Brexit negotiations, asserting that the Conservative Party's agreement with the European Union has proven to be more severe than what was promised during the 2016 referendum. During a cabinet meeting, Burnham characterized the current deal as unfavorable and outlined his intentions to pursue a more favorable relationship with the EU in a letter to frontbenchers.

The remarks come amid ongoing discussions within the government regarding the implications of Brexit and its impact on various sectors. Burnham's comments highlight a growing concern among some politicians that the realities of the Brexit deal have diverged significantly from the expectations set during the referendum campaign. This divergence raises questions about the government's strategy moving forward.

The significance of Burnham's statements lies in the potential for a shift in how the government approaches its relationship with the EU. By advocating for a reassessment of the current deal, he aims to open a dialogue about the future direction of Brexit negotiations, which could influence policy decisions and public sentiment.

As of now, it remains unclear how the cabinet will respond to Burnham's warnings and whether there will be a unified stance on Brexit moving forward. The outcome of ongoing discussions and any forthcoming proposals for a new approach to the EU relationship are yet to be confirmed, leaving the future of Brexit negotiations uncertain.