Tuesday, 3 November 2026 Updated 55 min ago
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Andy Burnham rejects “open borders” label amid Labour immigration debate

The Guardian reported that Manchester mayor Andy Burnham used a campaign stop in Makerfield to signal his position on Labour’s proposed immigration reforms.

Image accompanying the story: Andy Burnham rejects “open borders” label amid Labour immigration debate
Image: Photograph: Simon Dawson/No 10 Downing Street · via The Guardian

The Guardian reported that Manchester mayor Andy Burnham used a campaign stop in Makerfield to signal his position on Labour’s proposed immigration reforms. The proposals, which have drawn criticism from the party’s left as unfair and from the right as a political necessity, were the subject of a question about Reform’s attack that framed Burnham as “open borders Andy”. Burnham called the accusation “ridiculous” and defended his stance. He also hinted at how he might align with Shabana Mahmood’s tougher approach to migration, noting that the prime minister is keen to back those who contribute to the country. The exchange highlighted the ongoing tension within Labour over how to balance moral concerns about migration with electoral considerations.

Why it matters

Burnham’s response signals how senior Labour figures may shape the party’s immigration policy ahead of upcoming elections.

Key details

Location
United Kingdom · Europe
Reported by
The Guardian
First reported
Key names
Andy Burnham, Shabana Mahmood, Burnham, PM
Section
Politics

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

Read the full story at The Guardian

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