The Prime Minister is today triggering a process that will last at least two years and have a profound impact on London, Britain and Europe’s future.
There could not be more at stake in these negotiations – from our economic prosperity and standard of living, to our security, air quality and workers’ rights.
I didn’t vote for Brexit, but I am optimistic about London's future. My conversations with European and EU leaders this week have left me in no doubt that there is a good Brexit deal to be done if the Government approaches it in the right way – a deal that is in the best interests of London, Britain and the EU.
However, striking this deal will be extraordinarily complicated and difficult – and like all Londoners, I am hopeful that the negotiators will act in good faith and agree a deal that works for everyone.
I am disappointed that the Prime Minister did not use yesterday to give a cast-iron guarantee to the 3.3million EU citizens who currently live in Britain that they can remain in the country they call home. There are around one million EU citizens who study, live and work in London. They are Londoners - and they deserve to be left in no doubt that they will be able to continue living here.
The Prime Minister said securing their rights was an ‘early priority’ but stopped short of offering a cast-iron guarantee. These are people – not bargaining chips and this was an opportunity missed to prove that her approach is one of goodwill and friendship.
I’m urging both sets of negotiators to make securing an interim deal their first priority – particularly for financial services. This will reduce economic uncertainty on both sides of the Channel while the negotiations unfold.
During this period I will continue to make the case for what Londoners need from the Brexit negotiations – and I’ll stand up for Britain’s business community and their ability to create jobs and prosperity.
I’ll work closely with the Government whenever possible – but I won’t be afraid to speak out when I believe their approach is putting our economy at risk – Londoners would expect nothing less.
Sadiq Khan