Full Breakdown
Sadiq Khan Advocates for Labour to Rejoin the EU in Upcoming Election
3/20/2026, 4:47:03 PM
Sadiq Khan's Call for Rejoining the EU
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has urged the Labour Party to campaign on a promise to rejoin the European Union (EU) in the next general election, expected in 2029. In an interview with the Italian newspaper *La Repubblica*, Khan described UK membership as "inevitable" and advocated for rejoining both the customs union and the single market before the election. He emphasized the economic, social, and cultural damage he believes Brexit has inflicted on London and the UK as a whole, stating, "I see on a daily basis the damage Brexit has done to not just London, but Londoners."
Background and Context
The UK voted to leave the EU in a 2016 referendum, officially completing its exit in 2021. Since then, the political landscape has shifted, with increasing public sentiment favoring closer ties with the EU. Khan's remarks come amid ongoing discussions within Labour about its position on Brexit, which has been a contentious issue since the referendum.
Government's Position
Downing Street has firmly rejected Khan's proposals, reiterating that the government will not rejoin the customs union or the single market. A spokesperson stated that the government's manifesto promises regarding Brexit remain unchanged. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has sought to "reset" relations with the EU but has maintained that the UK will not return to the EU's structures.
Criticism and Opposition
Khan's call has sparked a backlash from some Labour MPs and Conservative Party officials. Critics argue that his stance could further divide the Labour Party, which is already grappling with internal disagreements over Brexit. A Conservative Party spokesman claimed that Khan's remarks indicate that Starmer is "in office but not in power," suggesting that influential figures within Labour are dictating policy without the Prime Minister's consent.
Economic Implications
Khan cited research from the National Institute of Economic and Social Research and Goldman Sachs, which suggested that Brexit has cost the UK economy significantly. He argued that the current global economic instability, exacerbated by factors such as US tariffs and geopolitical tensions, underscores the need for the UK to strengthen its ties with Europe.
Official Statements & Responses
Khan stated, "We should, as a Labour Party, fight the next general election with a clear manifesto commitment, a vote for Labour means we would rejoin the European Union." Meanwhile, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has acknowledged the need for closer alignment with EU regulations to boost trade, although she has ruled out full rejoining.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Khan's position represents a significant departure from the current Labour leadership's stance, there is no consensus within the party on how to approach the issue of EU membership. Some Labour figures, including Trade Minister Chris Bryant, have expressed openness to ambitious relations with the EU but have not explicitly supported Khan's call for rejoining.
What's Next
As the political landscape evolves leading up to the 2029 general election, Khan's intervention may influence Labour's approach to Brexit. Public opinion appears to be shifting, with recent surveys indicating that a majority of Brits now support rejoining the EU. The Labour Party's internal discussions and the government's responses will be crucial in shaping the future of UK-EU relations.
