Jeremy Corbyn has attempted to clarify Labour’s position on Brexit by insisting “Britain is leaving the European Union”.
The party leader responded to criticism over his approach to the key issue of next month’s election in an interview with BBC Look North on Wednesday.
Earlier this week London Mayor Sadiq Khan criticised the PM hopeful by saying people were unclear about Labour’s stance on Brexit.
Mr Corbyn today said: “"Can I make it clear: Yes, we accept the result of the referendum, Britain is leaving the European Union and we will negotiate a tariff-free trade access to the European market.
"That is essential for our manufacturing industry, essential for that trade and our future.
"We will also make sure that we protect those conditions we have achieved through Europe, such as the working time directive and issues like that.
"We will also guarantee the rights of EU nationals to remain here."
Pressed on whether that meant the UK would definitely be leaving the EU, he said: "That is the decision of the referendum and that is the process of Article 50."
Mr Corbyn continued: "As a country, we had a debate, we had a vote, we made a decision, but I think we have to be very clear: Europe is our major trading partner, about half of all of our trade is with Europe, it's our nearest neighbour and we share an awful lot in common with them - values and human rights.
"I think we have to make sure we have an effective, efficient, sensible relationship with them."
Additional reporting by Press Association.
