Sadiq Khan: London Mayor Calls for UK Return to EU, Slams Trump & Farage

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has called for a fundamental shift in Labour Party policy, urging the party to campaign on a platform of rejoining the European Union at the next general election. The call, made to the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, comes amid growing economic uncertainty linked to the policies of U.S. President Donald Trump and marks a significant escalation in Khan’s long-held advocacy for closer ties with the EU.

Khan argued that the economic landscape has dramatically changed since the 2016 Brexit referendum and the 2024 general election, citing Trump’s imposition of tariffs and the escalating conflict involving the U.S. In the Middle East as key factors. “President Trump is imposing tariffs to friend and foe, creating huge economic uncertainty that was unforeseen at the last general election,” Khan stated. He further highlighted the impact of the conflict in Iran on oil prices and the cost of living, questioning the viability of the current economic trajectory.

While Khan has previously advocated for rejoining the EU customs union and single market, this is the first time he has explicitly called for a commitment to full EU membership in Labour’s next manifesto. “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. I think it’s inevitable,” he told La Repubblica.

The Mayor’s stance puts him at odds with the current Labour leadership under Keir Starmer, who has previously stopped short of promising full EU membership, instead focusing on strengthening ties and seeking closer alignment with the bloc. Khan acknowledged this divergence, asserting that the changing circumstances necessitate a bolder approach. He proposed a three-stage plan: rejoining the customs union and single market during the current parliamentary term, followed by a clear commitment to full EU membership in the 2029 election, without holding a second referendum.

Khan dismissed concerns about further dividing the country with another referendum, arguing that Brexit has already deeply fractured the UK. He believes that rejoining the EU would ultimately lead to economic benefits, including a reduction in the cost of living, and would restore Britain’s standing on the world stage. He drew a parallel to the 1970s, when joining the European Economic Community marked a turning point for the UK’s economic fortunes.

The Mayor also criticized the current state of the UK’s relationship with the United States, expressing distrust in the Trump administration’s foreign policy decisions. He pointed to the UK’s decision to abstain from U.S.-led attacks in Iran as a positive example of asserting independence and prioritizing its own interests. “The ‘special relationship’ between the United Kingdom and the United States involves also being able to say no to your allies without being ashamed and without becoming another American state,” Khan said.

Khan further addressed concerns about immigration, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes control, compassion, and the contributions of migrants. He criticized recent government policies that he believes undermine integration and discourage skilled workers from coming to the UK. He also expressed concern that progressive voters, including ethnic minorities, are increasingly turning to the Green Party due to perceived shortcomings in Labour’s approach to social justice issues.

The London Mayor’s intervention comes as the UK faces a period of economic and political uncertainty, with the potential for a significant shift in the political landscape. The Labour Party has not yet responded to Khan’s call for a change in policy, and Starmer has maintained his position on seeking closer ties with the EU without advocating for full membership. The next general election, expected in 2029, will likely be a pivotal moment for the UK’s relationship with Europe.