London mayor tells meeting of ambassadors that mobility scheme would benefit young people and economy
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has told European Union diplomats that Brexit was a mistake and has called on the UK government to take bold steps in strengthening ties with the bloc. Speaking to the EU ambassador and the UK ambassadors to the 27 member states on Tuesday, Khan argued that forging closer relations would serve as a counterweight to tariffs threatened by former US President Donald Trump.
At the meeting, Khan stated that Britain’s exit from the EU “continues to have a negative impact” on the country, particularly its capital city. He reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for closer alignment with the bloc, emphasising the benefits of deeper cooperation.
Five years after Brexit, the government led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer has prioritised resetting relations with the EU. However, it has categorically ruled out rejoining the single market, returning to the customs union, or reinstating freedom of movement. While the UK has expressed interest in improving trade and diplomatic ties with Europe, it has resisted proposals from Brussels, including a new youth mobility scheme that would allow under-30s from the EU to live, study, and work in the UK, and vice versa.
Despite this reluctance, Khan voiced strong support for the government’s broader push for closer relations with Europe and has personally backed the proposed youth mobility scheme. He stressed that such an initiative would boost economic growth across the continent while providing young Londoners and EU citizens with valuable life experiences, such as working abroad and deepening their understanding of different languages and cultures.
“This would help to aid economic growth across Europe, but also give young Londoners and EU citizens important life experiences – like the opportunity to work abroad and learn more about our respective languages and cultures,” Khan said during his address. He further highlighted the importance of facilitating travel for schoolchildren from the EU to the UK, suggesting that easier access would allow them to explore shared historical and cultural ties.
Describing himself as a “proud European,” Khan urged EU leaders and allies to unite in tackling shared challenges, particularly the rise of “intolerant and anti-democratic populism” and the increasing threat of trade tariffs disrupting international affairs. He warned that economic uncertainty and protectionist policies, particularly those signalled by Trump, posed a significant threat to global stability.
Amid the possibility of escalating trade tensions should Trump return to office, Khan argued that a strong UK-EU relationship would serve as an essential counterbalance. His comments follow concerns over Trump’s potential imposition of tariffs that could negatively impact British businesses and global trade.
Khan’s remarks come just weeks after the Labour government distanced itself from his previous warnings about “resurgent fascism” under a potential Trump presidency. In January, Khan wrote an article for The Observer, in which he criticised the rise of far-right movements, naming Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, France’s National Rally, and Trump in the US as opportunists exploiting societal divisions for political gain.
The government, however, publicly rebuked Khan for his statements. Lords whip Sonny Leong, who holds a position equivalent to a minister in the House of Lords, disagreed with the mayor’s comments, asserting that Trump “has a mandate and we have to work with him.” Leong added, “Sometimes I would say a period of silence would be most welcome,” hinting that Khan’s vocal opposition could complicate diplomatic relations.
The Labour government has maintained its stance on Brexit, acknowledging the need for a more constructive relationship with the EU while refusing to reverse key aspects of the withdrawal agreement. A government spokesperson reiterated: “We are committed to resetting the relationship with the EU to improve the British people’s security, safety, and prosperity. But we have been clear there will be no return to freedom of movement, the customs union, or the single market.”
Khan’s push for deeper ties with the EU is consistent with his long-standing pro-European stance, which he has maintained since the Brexit referendum. As mayor, he has consistently highlighted Brexit’s adverse effects on London’s economy, particularly in sectors such as finance, creative industries, and hospitality.
The discussion over future UK-EU relations remains a contentious issue within British politics. While the Labour government seeks a pragmatic approach to engaging with Europe, Khan’s call for closer alignment suggests an appetite for even greater integration than the government is currently willing to pursue.
As economic uncertainties persist and trade relationships evolve, Khan’s advocacy for stronger EU ties may continue to shape discussions on Britain’s post-Brexit future. However, whether the Labour government will heed his calls for more ambitious cooperation remains to be seen.
