JEREMY Corbyn is backing calls for a referendum to be held on the re-unification of Ireland.
In an interview with BBC television presenter, Andrew Neil, Mr. Corbyn said he would back the people of Northern Ireland if they chose to hold a referendum on re-joining Ireland.
The Labour leader made his comments during a conversation about the status of the border between Ireland and the North post-Brexit.
He argued that it was imperative that the free movement of people between the two countries is not affected by Britain’s departure.
When asked about the movement of people and goods across the border, Mr Corbyn said it was up to the people of Northern Ireland to decide.
“That's up to the people of Northern Ireland to decide. If the Northern Ireland Assembly wants to have one then they should be allowed to,” he said.
Mr Corbyn also revealed that he is “not in favour” of a second Scottish referendum, but that Westminster should not block requests from the Scottish Parliament.
“I don't think Westminster should block it but I think there should be a serious discussion about the timing of it because if they referendum occurs during the Brexit negotiations it becomes a bit complicated.
“I would say that it shouldn't take place, if it takes place, until after the Brexit negotiations have been completed.”
Mr Corbyn lent his support to PM Theresa May’s decision not to pursue continued membership of the single market post-Brexit.
He said: “I don't think we can be members of the single market if we are not members of the European Union. This issue is one of access.”
Mr Corbyn added that Labour would vote against Theresa May’s final Brexit deal in if it fails to meet six tests set out earlier this week by his party, which include demands for the “exact same benefits” as the Britain currently has as a member of the single market and customs union.
“We would vote against it,” he said.
