LABOUR ‘WOULD STAY IN SINGLE MARKET’

A KEY member of Labour’s Brexit team has revealed the party could accept uncontrolled immigration as part of a final deal.

Richard Corbett, the party’s leader in the European Parliament, said the move would be necessary if Labour opt to remain in the EU single market.

His comments suggest Labour’s vision for Brexit Britain will see the UK accept freedom of movement and zero controls on immigration, while obeying rules from the European Court of Justice.

Writing for the Left Foot Forward website, Mr Corbett said: “Some have claimed that Jeremy Corbyn was less than forthcoming on the single market, but he was clear – Labour would seek a final deal that gives full access to European markets and maintains the benefits of the single market...with no new impediments to trade and no reduction in rights, standards and protections.

“This would require full alignment with the rules of the single market [in essence the single market is a set of rules that all participants abide by to avoid barriers to trade, ensure an even playing field and avoid market excesses].”

The MEP has been described by shadow Brexit secretary Sir Keir Starmer as “effectively a member of my shadow team” and is understood to be a key figure drawing up Brexit policy.

His comments follow Mr Corbyn’s speech earlier this week when he said the party would hand over control of trade policy to Brussels by creating an EU customs union.