In a bold move that could reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2024 general election, London Mayor Sadiq Khan has urged the Labour Party to commit to rejoining the European Union in its next manifesto. Speaking to the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Khan argued that not only would rejoining be beneficial in principle, but also that Labour should pursue a customs union and single market membership during the current parliamentary term. This marks a significant departure from the party’s existing stance under leader Keir Starmer, who has previously dismissed calls for such measures.
A Shift in the Brexit Narrative
Keir Starmer, at 63, has long been hesitant to concede that the Brexit referendum was a mistake. While Labour has begun to address the economic repercussions of leaving the EU, the party has resolutely maintained that customs union and single market membership are off the table. Yet Khan’s recent statements signal a potential shift in the party’s approach to Brexit, as he highlighted the “damaging” effects of the decision on London’s economy, society, and culture.
During his interview, Khan laid out a strategic plan for Labour, advocating for a five-stage process to rebuild relationships with the EU. He stated, “I see on a daily basis the damage Brexit has done… I’m quite clear in terms of what needs to happen, which is I do think we should join the European Union.” His proposed steps include resetting relations with the EU, achieving closer alignment, and ultimately rejoining both the customs union and the single market.
Labour’s Internal Struggle
Despite Khan’s enthusiasm, the prospect of Starmer adopting this plan appears slim. The Labour leader’s resistance stems from a desire to maintain party unity and avoid alienating those constituents who supported Brexit. Furthermore, the party’s current manifesto explicitly rules out rejoining the customs union or single market, making Khan’s suggestions particularly controversial.
However, Khan’s call for a clear electoral commitment could resonate with voters in London, where sentiments lean more toward Remain. His remarks come at a time when Labour faces increasing competition from the Green Party, which has adopted a more robust anti-Brexit stance. Khan’s push could be interpreted as an attempt to galvanise support ahead of local elections, where Labour’s dominance is under threat.
The Broader Political Context
Khan’s intervention also raises broader questions about the evolving political discourse surrounding Brexit. Ideas that were once considered radical, such as rejoining the EU, may gradually find their way into mainstream debate as public sentiment shifts. The political landscape has proven to be fluid, and what was once dismissed as folly could soon gain acceptance. Khan may be positioning himself and Labour for a future where rejoining the EU is not just a distant dream but a tangible political goal.
As the day progresses, additional political events unfold, including Kemi Badenoch’s launch of the Conservative Party’s local elections campaign and a statement from Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper regarding cuts to climate aid for developing countries. These developments further illustrate the dynamic and often contentious nature of British politics in the lead-up to the next general election.
Why it Matters
Khan’s insistence on revisiting Labour’s position on EU membership underscores a pivotal moment in UK politics where the ramifications of Brexit continue to evolve. As economic challenges and societal divisions mount, the political elite must grapple with the consequences of their choices. Khan’s advocacy not only reflects a growing appetite for a more pro-European stance within Labour but also indicates that the conversation around Brexit is far from settled. The next election could be a referendum on the future of the UK’s relationship with Europe, and the stakes have never been higher.
