Brexit can't change EU movement: Hollande

France's leader says the principle of free movement in the EU can't be affected by the UK's departure from the bloc.

France's leader says the principle of free movement in the EU can't be affected by the UK. Source: REUTERS/POOL

French President Francois Hollande says Britain's decision to leave the European Union can't jeopardise the bloc's principle of free movement.

"They have decided to leave. I think the worst attitude would be to contest their choice or call into question the very foundations of the European Union," Hollande told a conference on Europe in Paris on Saturday.

"So we have to see these negotiations to the end, while maintaining the principles of the European Union, notably that of free movement," he said.

Hollande added that although Britain was leaving, it should continue to play a role in Europe's defence.