Burnham is expected to tell MPs that rejecting closer ties with the European Union would amount to a dereliction of duty, as he sets out the potential benefits of negotiating a new agreement with the bloc.
Addressing the House of Commons, he is expected to argue that closer cooperation could help tackle illegal immigration. The proposed deal is also expected to be presented as a way to support economic growth.
The remarks will focus on the case for pursuing a new relationship with the EU rather than ruling out closer ties. The available details do not specify the form of the proposed agreement or the measures it might contain.
Burnham’s planned intervention links the issue to two key concerns: illegal immigration and the performance of the economy. He is expected to argue that the possible benefits of a new deal mean that rejecting closer cooperation would fail to meet the government’s responsibilities.
Further details of the proposal and any response from MPs are expected to emerge during the Commons address.
