Andy Burnham has stirred controversy by revisiting the Brexit debate and saying the UK needs an "honest discussion" about closer ties to the EU.
The Prime Minister has opened the door to bringing back freedom of movement, a key promise of the original Brexit vote.
Even merely suggesting talks with the EU has sparked accusations of betrayal.
Nigel Farage warned the move could allow 450 million people to come to Britain and undermine British labour.
Kemi Badenoch dismissed the proposal as another instance of Burnham's "foot in mouth syndrome" of speaking before engaging brain.
Some recall Burnham's earlier pledge in Makerfield that he did not want to re-run Brexit arguments.
The PM says he wants an "honest discussion" about deeper EU relations.
His plan includes convening a summit with the EU to seek a better deal since leaving the bloc.
Burnham remains bound by Labour's 2024 manifesto, which rules out returning to the single market, customs union, and freedom of movement.
These positions could shift after an election if Andy Burnham returns to Downing Street.
The story may mark the end of the beginning in the UK's ongoing EU question.
