UK prime minister say it is ‘clear’ Russia interfered in 2016 Brexit referendum

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated that it is evident Russia interfered in the 2016 Brexit referendum. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging Moscow's actions publicly, as other European nations are also at risk from similar threats. Burnham disclosed this information in an excerpt from his "The Rest is Politics' podcast released on Sunday.

He mentioned that upon becoming prime minister in July, he questioned his advisers about Russian interference in the 2016 referendum, and they confirmed the interference. Burnham believes that these incidents should be clearly recorded and can help voters in Germany and France comprehend that some political actions are instigated by their adversaries, particularly Russia.

Russia has consistently denied meddling in the affairs of other countries' elections or referendums. Burnham's remarks come as UK intelligence agencies raise concerns about the rising risk of Russian interference in Britain's democratic institutions. This marks the first time a British prime minister has openly admitted to Russian interference in the Brexit vote.

Burnham also discussed his conversation with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz regarding potential ties between Russia and the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which he believes receives funding from Moscow. He highlighted the dissemination of misinformation and disinformation originating from Russia into German politics.

According to Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee, the government failed to adequately assess the impact Russian state-run media and "troll" accounts could have had on the EU referendum in 2020.