EU referendum: No immediate change to free movement laws after Brexit, says Cameron

There will be no immediate changes to free movement laws after the Brexit vote, according to the Prime Minister.

In his resignation speech, David Cameron moved to assure Europeans living in Britain and UK expats living throughout the continent that they will not be affected in the near future.

He was backed by Mayor of London Sadiq Khan who appealed for people not to panic following the Brexit vote and insisted Europeans are welcome in London.

In a speech announcing his intention to resign this year, the Prime Minister said he wanted to reassure people there will be no sudden change.

Mr Cameron said: "Across the world people have been watching the choice that Britain has made.

"I would reassure those markets and investors that Britain's economy is fundamentally strong and I would also reassure Britons living in European countries and European citizens living here there will be no immediate changes in your circumstances.

"There will be no initial change in the way our people can travel, in the way our goods can move or the way our services can be sold."

David Cameron - a career in pictures

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Mr Khan said London can continue to succeed outside the EU.

He said: "I want to send a clear message to the British people and to businesses and investors around the world this morning - there is no need to panic.

Sadiq Khan told businesses and investors 'there is no need to panic' 
PA

"I still believe that our country is better off within the European Union, but there is no doubt that London will continue to be the successful city it is today.

"Our city and our country will continue to be the best place in the world to do business. And we will continue to look outwards and trade and engage with the entire world - including the European Union."

Echoing Mr Cameron's comments, the Labour politician, who praised the PM for his "dignified" response following the vote, said London would continue to be a welcoming city.

He said: "I want to send a particular message to the almost one million Europeans living in London, who make a huge contribution to our city, working hard, paying taxes and contributing to our civic and cultural life.

"You are welcome here. We value the enormous contribution you make to our city and that will not change as a result of this referendum."

Additional reporting by the Press Association.

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