How significant are Burnham’s remarks on Kremlin interference in Brexit vote?

What happened: Andy Burnham said he was told after becoming prime minister that Russia interfered in the 2016 EU referendum. In the Commons he said Russia has sought to interfere in elections and it is inconceivable 2016 was the first time. Key numbers: 2016 referendum; Russia report published July 2020; estimates of state-linked Why it matters: The remarks revive a debate that had faded, and could run counter to the position held under successive Conservative governments. Burnham did not say Russia altered the result, but with little new evidence he risks being accused of exaggeration.

Andy Burnham said he was told after becoming prime minister that Russia interfered in the 2016 EU referendum. In the Commons he said Russia has sought to interfere in elections and it is inconceivable 2016 was the first time.

The remarks revive a debate that had faded, and could run counter to the position held under successive Conservative governments. Burnham did not say Russia altered the result, but with little new evidence he risks being accused of exaggeration.