Brexit mayoral answer
Question No: 2019/20936
Andrew Dismore
What does the Brexit extension to 31 January 2020 mean for London’s economy and residents?
Brexit
The Mayor
Last updated: 07 January, 2020
London’s businesses and residents remain unsure about what the future holds because the Government has failed to provide the resources, guidance, and above all, clarity necessary.
Parliament is now expected to approve the UK Withdrawal Agreement, as is the EU. So, the 31 January deadline appears likely to be met.
However, this will do nothing to reduce uncertainty for our businesses, and anxiety for our residents. The Prime Minister has said he will negotiate a free trade agreement with the EU by December 2020, which international trade experts consider to be highly unlikely. At the same time, he proposes to end freedom of movement and introduce a new points-based immigration system. We have no clue as yet as to how any of this will work in practice. We await more detailed plans, but I will continue to fight for a Brexit deal that retains the closest alignment with the EU and protects the rights of European Londoners, as that is in the best interests of London’s economy and people.
