Sadiq Khan says that we need time to “square the circles”

by people from European countries such as Germany and France, in the hopes that they will leave following Brexit. In his interview Khan suggested that triggering Article 50 should be delayed until autumn 2017.

Khan believes that this delay will give negotiators the time needed to “square the circle” of being a part of the single market without the addition of free movement into Great Britain. He believes that waiting until after the German and French elections would potentially give the new leaders more flexibility in adhering to some of Britain’s demands. Khan said that tact is essential in terms of when the country formally begins to leave Europe. When discussing the possibility of losing businesses, he said that “At the moment they have hope. They are being reassured by myself and others that we have a plan in relation to getting the best deal possible.” However, as soon as Article 50 is activated then it will become much harder, rather than easier.

Although it is hoped that once Britain leaves the European Union (EU) they will continue to trade in the single market, European leaders, such as Germany’s spokesman for foreign policy Jurgen Hardt, have stated that Britain cannot have access without accepting its rules. These are: the free movement of money, sending goods anywhere you please, providing services in any location, and the free movement of labour and people.

Theresa May, Prime Minister, has stated that Article 50 would not be activated until after January 2017, or until there is an agreement with all members of the United Kingdom, specifically Scotland who voted to remain.