Sadiq Khan has been nominated for a peerage by Prime Minister Keir Starmer in a political peerages list released before Parliament breaks for the summer recess. The London Mayor is among several figures included in the cross-party list, which also features Christina McAnea, former chief of the Unison union, and Alison Graham, chief executive of the Child Poverty Action Group.
Starmer Breaks Pledge on Resignation Honours
Mr Starmer had previously signalled he could break his pledge not to hand out resignation honours. The list released today was in the works before the PM announced his resignation, according to a Government source. A peerage for Sir Sadiq opens the door for him to join the Cabinet table, as peers serving in the House of Lords are able to become ministers.
Khan's Spokesman Rules Out Ministerial Role
However, a spokesman for Sir Sadiq said he did not want to become a minister, stating: "Sadiq doesn’t want to be a minister, and he will continue to devote the same time and energy as Mayor building a fairer, safer and greener city for every Londoner." The spokesman added that Khan has not yet decided whether he will stand for re-election as Mayor, noting that this is consistent with previous elections where he announced his decision later in the electoral cycle.
Government Praises Khan's Record as Mayor
A Government source praised Khan's tenure, saying: “Sadiq has been a brilliant Mayor who has transformed London for the better, so this is thoroughly deserved. He has cut violent crime to record lows, cleaned up the capital’s air, delivered the Elizabeth Line, and got London building council homes again.”
This is a breaking news story. Stay tuned for updates.
