Sadiq Khan heaps pressure on Burnham to start reversing Brexit with concessions at EU summit – as Brussels ‘delays push for cut-price student fees to encourage PM’
Sadiq Khan has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to use next month’s EU summit to agree measures that could begin reversing the effects of Brexit. Khan says closer ties on trade and movement would boost the economy and form steps towards his stated goal of rejoining the EU, a proposal that could reopen divisions within Labour.
In a letter to Europe minister Hamish Falconer, Khan called for a youth mobility scheme, agreements on food and drink standards, touring musicians, school-trip identity cards and recognition of some professional qualifications. Burnham has supported reducing trade barriers and called for discussion of the UK’s long-term relationship with the EU, while some Labour MPs have expressed concern. Reports say Brussels may give the UK six months to reach agreement on student fees rather than demand a deal at the summit on 20 November.
In short
- Khan wants early agreements to bring the UK closer to the EU.
- His proposals include youth mobility and lower trade barriers.
- Brussels may allow six months to agree student fee terms.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Khan’s supporters argue that practical agreements on mobility, trade standards and professional recognition could reduce Brexit-related friction, support businesses and cultural exchange, and improve opportunities for young people. They see closer cooperation as a pragmatic response to economic costs and a possible step towards a relationship the public may wish to deepen.
The case against
Critics could argue that concessions which move the UK closer to EU rules or mobility arrangements risk narrowing the scope for policies chosen independently after Brexit, while offering uncertain economic gains. They may also warn that pursuing closer ties without a clear public mandate could reopen political divisions and distract from other priorities.
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