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By The Open Chronicle Editorial Staff
LONDON — 10 Downing Street has issued a firm dismissal of London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s latest call to reverse Brexit, reinforcing the government’s stance that the United Kingdom will not be rejoining the European Union, its single market, or the customs union.
In a move that has reignited the long-simmering debate over Britain’s departure from the bloc, Mayor Khan characterized Brexit as “the biggest act of economic self-harm any country has ever done.” Speaking with renewed urgency, Khan stated that his “ultimate goal” is to see the UK rejoin the EU within his lifetime, arguing that a return to the single market is the most viable path to restoring economic growth.
The Mayor’s comments come at a time of increased diplomatic maneuvering. Khan recently signaled his intent to tell EU diplomats that Brexit was a “mistake,” pushing for a youth mobility scheme and closer alignment to mitigate the potential impact of global economic shifts, including trade pressures from the United States.
However, the Prime Minister’s office moved quickly to shut down the proposal. A spokesperson for Downing Street reiterated that while the government is committed to “resetting” the relationship with Brussels and deepening cooperation in specific sectors, the core tenets of the post-Brexit settlement remain non-negotiable.
“We are not rejoining the single market or the customs union,” the statement read, effectively drawing a line under Khan’s ambitions.
The internal friction within the Labour Party has become increasingly visible. While the official party line remains firm against re-entry, several high-ranking figures have previously hinted at a desire for closer ties. The Business Secretary recently noted it would be “crazy” not to consider the benefits of a customs union, and other cabinet members have occasionally avoided a total “never” when discussing future alignment.
For now, the central government remains locked in its position, focusing on a “reset” that stops well short of the full reversal the London Mayor is championing. As the UK approaches a decade since the original referendum, the divide between the capital’s leadership and Number 10 suggests that the “ghost of Brexit” is far from laid to rest.