Sadiq Khan says Brexit was a 'mistake' as he backs major UK-EU scheme

Brexit was a “mistake” and the UK should improve relations with the EU in every area possible, has warned.

The Mayor of London also renewed his backing for proposals for a youth mobility scheme - allowing under 30s to work, live and study in both the UK and EU for a fixed period.

’s government has repeatedly rejected such proposals despite a push to reset UK-EU relations strained by years of fractious negotiations over .

In a meeting with the EU ambassador to London and UK ambassadors of 27 member states, Sir Sadiq said: "I'm a proud European and of the view that Brexit was a mistake that continues to have a negative impact - not just on my city and country, but on the European community as a whole.

"I remain passionate about growing and improving our relationship across every area possible, and I believe this is essential if we're to effectively tackle a host of shared challenges - relating to trade, our economies, security, the environment and the rise of an intolerant and anti-democratic populism."

He said a youth mobility scheme - a proposal being pushed by EU leaders - “would help aid economic growth across London” while giving under 30s the chance to work abroad.

Sir Sadiq also suggested at the gathering in London that the UK’s relationship with its closest trading partner was now even more important after ’s return to the White House.

The US President has in recent weeks threatened to slap huge tariffs on global imports to the US - including 25% on steel and aluminium imports - despite warnings of economic carnage.

Mr Starmer is set to fly to Washington next week for his first face-to-face meeting with Mr Trump since he returned to power with No10 hoping the UK will be exempt from any tariffs.

Without naming the US President, Sir Sadiq said: "Indeed, at a moment when we see trade wars and tariffs posing a real threat to international affairs, I'm convinced that we should be looking at what more we can do to strengthen our relationship as a counterweight to these trends."

He added: “I know the UK Government is determined to reset the UK’s relationship with the EU. As Mayor, I wholeheartedly support this Government’s push for better relations. I will continue to make the case about the importance of deepening our ties and being bold when it comes to closer alignment. This includes my long-standing position on the benefits of the single market and customs union.”

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