Almost a decade after the referendum, freedom of movement is finding its way back into our national political conversation. Just as the wounds of Brexit begin to heal, there is a risk of pulling out the staples prematurely.
With further negotiations between the UK and EU approaching, there are compelling reasons to strengthen our relationship with our closest neighbours. Reducing trade barriers, supporting British exporters and creating opportunities for young people could bring real economic benefits.
The proposed youth mobility scheme is a good example. Allowing young people to live, work and study across Europe offers opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. Crucially, the scheme is restricted by clear parameters on age and duration distinguishing it from the much broader rights associated with freedom of movement.
That distinction matters.
Freedom of movement was one of the defining issues of the ‘once in a generation’ Brexit referendum, for many it raised fundamental questions about immigration, contribution and fairness.
These concerns have not simply disappeared.
Questions remain about the balance between recruiting workers from overseas and investing in our domestic workforce. There are equally legitimate questions about housing availability, NHS capacity and the pressures on local services.
None of these issues has a simple answer, and the contribution migrants make to our economy and public services should not be overlooked. But neither should the political context in which this conversation is taking place.
The debate around immigration has become increasingly toxic, with racist rhetoric and intimidation becoming disturbingly normalised. Reopening freedom of movement risks reigniting divisions when the country desperately needs a more constructive conversation.
Perhaps most importantly, there is the question of trust.
Labour‘s 2024 manifesto was unequivocal: “That does not mean reopening the divisions of the past. There will be no return to the single market, the customs union, or freedom of movement.”
That was a clear commitment made to the electorate, including in communities such as Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes, where the Brexit vote reflected a deep sense that Westminster had stopped listening.
Political trust is hard won and easily lost. The perception that promises made at elections can subsequently be revisited by a political establishment removed from the realities of working communities has left lasting scars.
As the government approaches its next round of EU negotiations, the challenge is to secure a better relationship with Europe while remaining faithful to the commitments on which it was elected.
The prime minister’s ambition for closer cooperation offers genuine opportunities for trade, growth and young people. None of those ambitions depend on the reopening of the debate around freedom of movement.
If the prime minister is serious about offering hope, there is no hope without trust.
Britain leaves the European Union after 47 years of membership
