Burnham: Russia interfered with Brexit vote
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said in an interview that it is "clear" that Russia interfered in the 2016 Brexit referendum, but did not provide further details about the nature or impact of the interference. He warned, however, that voters in Germany and France should "understand that some of this politics is instigated via our enemies, namely Russia."
Do more to combat manipulation
There is too little discussion about foreign interference in politics, criticises De Volkskrant:
“All too often, the blame is pinned on traditional centrist parties and their unconvincing programmes. But perhaps we must conclude that in the current toxic debate – fuelled by social media algorithms that spread outrage and hatred – moderate parties don't really stand a chance anyway. American tech companies that reject all accountability are largely dictating the rules of public debate and providing countries such as Russia with the means to manipulate our public opinion. It is incomprehensible that so few politicians are speaking out against this.”
Looking to the past instead of ahead
The Daily Telegraph sees Burnham's accusations as diversionary tactics:
“It is convenient politics for Labour to blame Brexit for its own poor handling of the economy. Mr Burnham's careless remarks over the weekend about Russian interference in the 2016 referendum will have pushed the buttons of the sort of fanatical Rejoiner that Labour wants to win back. But the boldness of the Prime Minister's intervention should not be downplayed. The main irony is that he claims to want a discussion on Britain's future, but his only means for doing so is to relitigate the painful Brexit debates of the past.”
Back into Europe where it belongs
The allegations are yet another reason to continue the debate on rejoining the EU, argues The Independent:
“There are now legitimate, fundamental questions to ask about the path back to a more stable and productive relationship. Should a referendum, a device that proved so traumatic and divisive before, also be ditched, and the decision left to the outcome of the next general election and a new parliament? Should Britain consider joining the euro? ... Mr Burnham is right to look ahead to the next decade, and is prepared to talk about a different path forward, one that brings British influence back into the heart of Europe, where it belongs.”