In a bold move that could reshape Labour’s stance on Brexit, London Mayor Sadiq Khan has called for the party to commit to rejoining the customs union and single market in its forthcoming election manifesto. In an interview with *La Repubblica*, Khan articulated his belief that the current government’s approach to Brexit has inflicted significant economic, social, and cultural damage, particularly in London. His comments come as Labour grapples with internal divisions over its position on Europe, particularly as the 2024 general election looms.
A Shift in the Brexit Debate
Khan’s statements mark a stark departure from Labour’s current leadership under Keir Starmer, who has previously dismissed the prospect of rejoining the EU during his lifetime. This reticence has left the party navigating a complex political landscape, where calls for a closer relationship with Europe are met with resistance. While Labour leaders have begun to acknowledge the adverse effects of Brexit, they have steadfastly maintained red lines against rejoining the customs union or single market.
Khan, however, is taking a different tack. He asserts that Labour should not only re-establish relations with the EU but also take concrete steps towards rejoining key European frameworks. “I see on a daily basis the damage Brexit has done to not just London, but Londoners,” Khan stated. “We should rejoin the customs union and the single market during this parliament, and ultimately, commit to rejoining the European Union in our manifesto.”
The Five-Step Process
In outlining his vision, Khan proposed a systematic five-step approach to repairing Labour’s relationship with Europe. This plan includes an immediate reset of relations, which he believes has already been initiated. Next, he advocates for closer alignment with EU standards sector by sector, diverging only under exceptional circumstances. The third step would see Labour commit to rejoining the customs union within the current parliament, a move Khan argues is essential for effective trade. Following that, he calls for rejoining the single market, ideally before the next election.
The final stage of Khan’s proposal is an unequivocal pledge in Labour’s manifesto to rejoin the EU. He argues that such a commitment would eliminate the need for a second referendum, asserting that a vote for Labour should inherently mean a vote for European integration.
Political Ramifications
While Khan’s suggestions may resonate with a segment of Labour’s base, particularly in London, the likelihood of Starmer endorsing this plan appears minimal. Starmer’s leadership has often been characterised by caution, especially regarding Brexit, and Khan’s intervention may be viewed as an attempt to galvanise support ahead of local elections, where Labour faces significant competition from Green Party candidates who have capitalised on anti-Brexit sentiments.
Khan’s call for a change in Labour’s approach may also reflect a broader shift in public opinion regarding Brexit. Over time, ideas once viewed as extreme can gain traction, as evidenced by the rise of the Brexit movement itself. Khan appears to be positioning himself as a forward-thinking leader, ready to adapt Labour’s policies to better reflect the evolving political climate.
The Broader Political Context
As the political landscape shifts, Labour will need to respond to the growing discontent among its supporters regarding Brexit. The party’s failure to engage meaningfully with pro-European sentiment could cost it dearly, particularly in urban centres like London, where a significant portion of the electorate supported remaining in the EU.
Today, the political agenda includes various significant events, such as Kemi Badenoch launching the Conservative Party’s local elections campaign and Yvette Cooper addressing MPs on international development spending. With these developments unfolding, Khan’s statements could reverberate through the party’s hierarchy, prompting a re-evaluation of its Brexit strategy.
Why it Matters
Khan’s intervention is not merely a call for policy change; it represents a critical juncture for Labour as it seeks to redefine its identity in the post-Brexit landscape. As public sentiment gradually shifts towards a more pro-European stance, Labour’s ability to adapt could determine its electoral success in the upcoming general election. The party’s response to Khan’s proposal will reveal whether it is prepared to embrace a future that includes a closer relationship with Europe or if it will continue to adhere to the cautious pragmatism epitomised by its current leadership.
