A major debate is unfolding within British political circles following an unexpected and sharp initiative to reverse the consequences of Brexit and restore deep integration with the European continent. Speaking at the annual Labour Party conference in Liverpool, London Mayor Sadiq Khan made a resonant statement that the country must immediately return to the European Union, and do so without holding a new nationwide referendum.
Sadiq Khan's Roadmap: From the Customs Union to the Single Market
According to the influential British publication The Independent, the capital's mayor appealed to the government with a clear integration strategy. The proposed plan includes an immediate return to the EU Customs Union to lower severe trade barriers, subsequently obtaining associate member status and fully accepting the terms of the European Single Market. Khan also demanded embedding this ambitious course into the upcoming Labour election manifesto, adding pressure to the party leadership.
Economic Consequences of Brexit and Brussels' Stance
The London mayor's speech exposed systemic issues in the British economy, which has faced chronic inflation, labor shortages, and declining efficiency in the financial sector after severing ties with the EU. Analysts note that avoiding a new referendum stems from a desire to steer clear of deep domestic political polarization in British society. However, experts warn that Brussels is unlikely to agree to selective preferences without London fulfilling basic obligations regarding free movement and budget contributions.
Contradictory Data
While the Mayor of London insists on rapid institutional rapprochement and the inclusion of this agenda in party documents, official government representatives and Labour leadership maintain a more cautious stance. The Prime Minister is focused on pragmatically improving bilateral relations and preparing for the upcoming UK-EU summit, avoiding sharp statements about a full return to European structures. Such discrepancies raise questions about the practical feasibility of the proposed roadmap.
