Full Breakdown
Sadiq Khan's Ambition to Reverse Brexit: A Call for Rejoining the EU
2/11/2026, 9:26:16 PM
Sadiq Khan's Vision for the Future
Sir Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, has articulated his "ultimate goal" of reversing Brexit, expressing a strong desire for the United Kingdom to rejoin the European Union (EU). In a recent interview with *The Observer*, Khan described Brexit as “the biggest act of economic self-harm any country’s ever done,” asserting that he believes the UK will rejoin the EU within his lifetime. He advocates for a return to both the single market and the customs union, emphasizing that the geopolitical landscape has shifted since the Brexit referendum in 2016.
Political Context and Party Dynamics
Khan's stance comes at a time when the Labour Party, led by Sir Keir Starmer, is facing internal pressure regarding its position on EU relations. While Starmer has maintained a firm stance against rejoining the EU, some party members, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, have not ruled out the possibility of rejoining a customs union. This divergence within the party highlights a growing debate about the UK's relationship with Europe, particularly as economic concerns mount.
Official Responses and Developments
Despite Khan's calls for a renewed discussion on Brexit, Downing Street has consistently ruled out rejoining the customs union, even after the European Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, Valdis Dombrovskis, indicated that the EU would be open to such discussions. This dismissal of potential engagement with the EU has drawn criticism from various quarters, including Khan, who argues that the UK should reconsider its position in light of changing global dynamics.
Criticism and Opposition
Khan's pro-EU stance has not been universally accepted, even within his party. Critics argue that his views contradict the official Labour Party policy, which currently opposes rejoining the EU or its associated structures. The Labour leadership's reluctance to embrace a more pro-European agenda could hinder the party's appeal to voters who are concerned about the economic ramifications of Brexit.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Brexit was the biggest act of economic self-harm any country’s ever done.” — Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
- “My ultimate goal is for us to rejoin and I think it will happen in my lifetime.” — Sir Sadiq Khan
- “I definitely want us to be part of a customs union.” — Sir Sadiq Khan
- “I think we can negotiate more now, because of how geopolitics has changed, than we could in 2016 or 2019.” — Sir Sadiq Khan
- “Europe needs us and we need Europe.” — Sir Sadiq Khan
What's Next?
As the debate over Brexit continues, the Labour Party may face increasing pressure to reassess its position on EU relations, particularly in the lead-up to future elections. Khan's vocal advocacy for rejoining the EU could influence the party's direction and provoke further discussions about the UK's long-term relationship with Europe.
