Burnham says Irish unity referendum off the table

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has sparked a political controversy by stating that a referendum on Irish unity is "off the table," drawing sharp criticism from nationalist parties while being welcomed by unionists. The remarks, made during his first visit to Northern Ireland as Prime Minister, have prompted a debate over the future of the Good Friday Agreement. Speaking in Belfast on Thursday, August 27, 2026, Mr. Burnham said he would take a "collaborative approach" but that some issues would not be considered. "I will take a collaborative approach but some issues will be off the table, and that is one issue that will be off the table," he stated.