The Mayor of London is “disappointed” about the Government’s decision to charge EU nationals for registering to stay in the UK.

Yesterday the government promised to fast-track the registration process for EU citizens wanting to stay in the UK after Brexit.

This means that decisions on applicants wanting to remain in the country will now be reduced from six months to a matter of days according to the government.

Applications will cost £65 per adult, with children paying half of that.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “There are approximately one million EU citizens living in London.

“They are part of the fabric of this city – working hard, paying taxes and playing a major role in our civic and cultural life.

“It is disappointing that the Government has not used today as an opportunity to show EU nationals living in the UK goodwill by making this process free of charge to people residing in our country.

“At the very least, those who moved here before the referendum took place shouldn’t be expected to pay to stay.”

During Mayor’s Question Time yesterday Mr Khan was also asked by Labour London Assembly member Andrew Dismore on the work he would be doing to “navigate” London through Brexit.

Mr Khan replied: “Most of the power lies with national rather than regional governments, but I will continue to lobby the government for a good Brexit deal.”

Mr Dismore also asked whether the mayor thought there should be a second referendum to which Mr Khan replied: “I am heartbroken that we voted to leave the EU but I stand by the results of the referendum.

“We have to make sure that the deal benefits the UK and I will continue to be an advocate for a good Brexit.”

He also added that he will shortly be launching an online portal so that European Londoners can access the information they need to stay in the UK after Brexit.