Rayner backs Burnham call for debate on return to free movement with EU

Cabinet minister says PM's plea is pragmatism' but comments risk causing concern among some red wall MPs

Andy Burnham's call for the UK to consider a return to free movement with Europe has been backed by senior cabinet ministers including Angela Rayner but risks causing concern among fellow red wall MPs.

The prime minister made his plea for an honest discussion" about free movement in an interview with the Sunday Times, making clear that staying out of it would no longer be a red line in talks with the EU.