Concerns are mounting among residents of Ashton-in-Makerfield over Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s recent openness to revisiting the terms of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, including the possibility of restoring free movement between the UK and the EU. The proposal has sparked warnings of a potential backlash in Burnham’s Greater Manchester constituency, which voted strongly in favor of leaving the EU in the 2016 referendum.

Burnham, who assumed office recently, suggested an “honest conversation” about reinstating free movement could be necessary as part of a deal with the EU, even if it meant holding a new referendum. Reports indicate that UK and EU officials have been exploring various options for closer alignment. However, many residents in Makerfield expressed opposition, insisting the original referendum should be respected.

Retired police officer John Pagett, 68, criticized Burnham’s position sharply, describing the Prime Minister’s approach as an “affront to democracy.” Pagett, who spent 25 years with Greater Manchester Police, voiced concerns that renewed free movement could strain the benefits system and worsen employment prospects for those already out of work. “It was supposed to be a once-in-a-generation referendum, not a once-every-10-years one,” he said.

Similarly, a 70-year-old local grandmother, who requested anonymity, condemned the idea, citing worries about immigration and job availability. She accused the Labour Party of favoring cheap labor at the expense of young British workers and suggested Burnham could face electoral consequences if he pursued closer EU ties.

Community voices at a local café echoed opposition to another referendum. Yasmin Ratcliffe, a mother of three, emphasized that the town voted to leave and said Burnham should respect that mandate. Her friend Kerry Curson added a brief but firm rejection of a new vote. Retired crane driver Terry Murray expressed a somewhat mixed view, acknowledging there was no need for another referendum while still expressing cautious approval for Burnham’s performance so far.

While many in Makerfield remain staunchly opposed to reopening the Brexit debate, some residents voiced alternative perspectives. Allan Bramhall, a former factory worker, acknowledged there are pros and cons but personally leaned toward rejoining the EU, citing rising food prices and challenges faced by farmers since Brexit. Jean Johnson, a regular traveler, also favored EU membership for the convenience and cost savings it could provide.

The debate marks a significant moment in Makerfield, a former coal-mining town with a long history of Labour representation. The constituency’s recent by-election saw shifts in voter allegiance, including support for Burnham as part of opposition to the previous Labour leader. The current discussions on Brexit policy underscore ongoing divisions within the community about the direction the country should take following its departure from the EU.