David Lammy, the former deputy prime minister, is preparing to run for Mayor of London if Sir Sadiq Khan chooses not to seek a fourth term. Lammy, who served as Foreign Secretary and Justice Secretary under Sir Keir Starmer, is currently a backbench MP after being excluded from Andy Burnham's new Cabinet.
Lammy's Path to Mayor
The London-born MP for Tottenham believes he has a strong chance because support for the Green Party appears to be declining. The Greens had been seen as the main challengers in the capital, particularly if party leader Zack Polanski were to stand. However, enthusiasm for Polanski among left-wing voters is reportedly waning.
Sir Sadiq, who has been mayor since 2016, could still stand again and is not expected to announce his decision until 2027. He recently said: "My tank is full, I'm still fizzing with ideas."
Political Background
Lammy was one of Sir Keir's most loyal supporters but received no ministerial role after Burnham took over. He earned the nickname "calamity Lammy" after 179 prisoners were released in error, though he built close ties with the Trump administration during his time as foreign secretary.
Burnham has not appointed a deputy prime minister but named Louise Haigh as First Secretary of State, a title that effectively serves the same function.
