Khan Urges Immediate EU Re-engagement, Citing Brexit Costs

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has called for an immediate push to rejoin the European Union, arguing that simply suggesting a return to closer ties in the next election manifesto is insufficient. Khan urged that the work to persuade the country of the benefits of EU membership should begin now, advocating for an immediate re-entry into the customs union, followed by seeking 'associate' membership, and eventually proposing full rejoining without a second referendum.

This intervention, made in an interview with the i paper, comes as Labour grapples with the re-emergence of the Brexit debate within the party. Khan's stance contrasts with that of Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, who warned against the potential for "political paralysis" if the UK re-engaged in the Brexit debate. Reynolds indicated that such a move would carry a "a cost" and stated he does not support a return to the EU customs union.

Khan emphasized that it is not enough to "pull out of a hat this rabbit of a manifesto and say we're going to rejoin in six weeks' time." He stressed that the "heavy lifting" and the effort to explain the "disbenefits of being outside the European Union and the benefits of being part of this family" must commence immediately.

Reynolds, speaking to the Sunday Telegraph, expressed a different perspective. He suggested that the UK should continue negotiating to improve ties within the existing "red lines," which preclude rejoining the single market or customs union. Reynolds argued that this approach, focused on improving current relations without returning to political uncertainty, is the correct path. He acknowledged the economic cost associated with leaving the EU and warned that a resurgence of the Brexit debate would lead to further uncertainty.

Reynolds stated that the benefits of rejoining the EU customs union might not significantly outweigh the advantages gained from the current agreement and ongoing negotiations. He also highlighted the loss of opportunities with the rest of the world that would accompany such a move. He advocated for focusing on the practical benefits that a reset of UK-EU relations, as it currently stands, can offer.

Previous discussions within Labour have seen former Prime Minister Tony Blair suggesting that the UK should consider rejoining a "significantly reformed" bloc over the next decade. Andy Burnham has also previously supported rejoining the EU, though his position has reportedly softened since becoming Prime Minister.