Sadiq Khan Urges Labour to Pledge EU Re-entry in Next Election
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has publicly called on the Labour Party to include a commitment to rejoin the European Union in its next general election manifesto. This stance directly challenges the current position of Labour leader Keir Starmer, who has ruled out rejoining the EU, the single market, or the customs union.
Khan’s Vision for a Return to the EU
In an interview with Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Khan reiterated his belief that rejoining the EU is “inevitable” and increasingly necessary, particularly given the current geopolitical climate and the presence of Donald Trump in power in the United States. He argued that Europe represents the UK’s security and urged Starmer to adopt a pro-EU pledge for the next election, expected in 2029. Khan stated, “It is an inevitable and increasingly necessary fate, in an incredibly unstable world and with Donald Trump in power in America. Europe is our only security.”
Challenge to Keir Starmer’s Position
Khan’s call for a pledge to rejoin the EU represents a significant challenge to Starmer’s more cautious approach to EU relations. Starmer has focused on negotiating new arrangements with the EU, particularly regarding food, agriculture, and defense ties, while maintaining the “clear red lines” regarding the single market and customs union as reported by The Independent.
In 2024, Starmer explicitly stated that he did not foresee the UK rejoining the single market or customs union during his lifetime according to HuffPost UK. However, Khan believes the situation has changed, and voters have now seen the negative consequences of Brexit, including reduced investment and exports.
Economic Concerns and Impact on London
Khan highlighted the economic impact of Brexit, noting a decline in investment in the UK and reduced exports to the EU. He likewise expressed concern over the departure of EU nationals from London since 2019, with over 840,000 EU citizens working in the city prior to that year as reported by HuffPost UK.
Khan’s Long-Term Outlook
The London mayor expressed his confidence that the UK will eventually rejoin the EU, stating his belief that it will happen within his lifetime as reported by The Independent. He advocates for the UK to be part of a customs union and the single market, arguing that Europe needs the UK and vice versa.