Mayor highlights Brexit damage
London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan told the Italian newspaper la Repubblica that it is “inevitable, at some point, for us to rejoin the European Union.” He highlighted the economic, social, and cultural damage Brexit has caused to London and its residents.
Rising costs fuel call for EU return
Khan cited US tariffs and the conflict in Iran as factors worsening the cost of living in the UK. He urged the ruling Labour Party to include the country’s return to the EU in their next election manifesto, recommending re-entry into the customs union and single market before the expected 2029 general elections. The current Prime Minister has repeatedly stated he has no intention to pursue this.
Other political voices support EU return
Khan is not alone in advocating for EU reintegration. A spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats, historically the most pro-EU party in the UK, called on the government to address Brexit’s economic damage, starting with customs union membership. Green Party leader Zack Polanski described Brexit as a “social, cultural, and economic disaster,” expressing his hope for eventual reunification.
Former Conservative Prime Minister Sir John Major also acknowledged Brexit’s failures. Speaking at King’s College London, he cited annual losses of £100 billion from reduced European trade and £40 billion in lower tax revenue. While he doubts full EU reintegration will happen soon, he stressed that rebuilding close relations with European neighbours is essential to restore economic prosperity and tackle the cost-of-living crisis.
Also read: UK passport fees to exceed £100 under new plans
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