London Mayor Sadiq Khan has issued a stark warning to the Labour Party following what he described as 'bitterly disappointing' local election results, pointedly withholding his endorsement of party leader Sir Keir Starmer. In a lengthy statement, Khan reflected on the party's losses across the capital, which saw the Green Party secure mayoralties in Hackney, Lewisham, and Waltham Forest, the Conservatives reclaim Westminster City Council, and Reform UK gain Havering.
Khan's Warning
Sir Sadiq stated that the results 'speak to a far-reaching disillusionment and fracturing in our politics, which cannot be downplayed, spun or dismissed.' He added that 'many people who voted Labour at the last general election clearly feel angry, disappointed and let down,' with Londoners 'frustrated with the slow pace of change.'
Khan warned: 'Without a change in course and an acceleration in delivery, the threat to Labour is existential. We risk a repeat in London, Wales and across England of what happened in Scotland, where we have still not recovered.'
Reform UK's Gains
The local elections also saw Reform UK celebrating a 'truly historic day' as the party made significant gains, further eroding Labour's support. The results have intensified pressure on Sir Keir Starmer, who has vowed not to resign despite the 'really tough' outcome.
Khan's statement highlights growing internal divisions within Labour, as the party grapples with how to regain voter trust ahead of future elections.
