Blair insists EU officials 'will give into UK's freedom of movement demands if we REMAIN'

The former Prime Minister said his “discussions” with European leaders have led him to believe that Brussels officials are willing to accommodate Britain’s wishes when it comes to immigration reform.

Writing in an article for his political think tank, Mr Blair said: “Reform is now on Europe’s agenda.

“The European leaders, certainly from my discussions, are willing to consider changes to accommodate Britain, including around freedom of movement”.

He added: “The French and Germans share some of the British worries, notably around immigration, and would compromise on freedom of movement.”

Mr Blair’s comments mark a stark contrast to the views held by EU’s chief negotiator, Michel Barnier, who said the freedom of movement of people, goods, services and capital – the key principles of the single market – were “indivisible”.

Theresa May has pledged to end free movement completely in Brexit negotiations, claiming the referendum vote showed the public wanted to reduce EU immigration.

But Mr Blair said leaving the single market was a “damaging position”, and urged the party’s leadership to champion a “radically distinct” position on Europe.

Mr Blair said: “Rational consideration of the options would sensibly include the option of negotiating for Britain to stay within a Europe itself prepared to reform and meet us half way.”

Meanwhile Nick Clegg has relaunched his campaign for a second EU referendum, and wants votes from people under-30 to have their votes counted twice.

Mr Clegg also said the public’s outlook on Brexit has changed, but he insisted Britain should be “free to say whether we think (the outcome) measures up to what was promised.”

Those promises included “trade deals and the the £350 million a week for the NHS” which he slammed as “untrue”.