Keir Starmer has made Sadiq Khan a peer in the House of Lords just days before the prime minister stands down, potentially reshaping Labour's political landscape. The London mayor's elevation to the Lords has been long anticipated, with Starmer reportedly eager to secure Labour's progressive flank after the May local elections.
Why Starmer Elevated Sadiq Khan
Starmer's decision to appoint Khan as a peer is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Labour's presence in the upper chamber. The House of Lords has been dominated by Conservatives for years, and Starmer has faced criticism for appointing 66 peers since taking office two years ago. His supporters argue this is necessary to rebalance the House of Lords and prevent legislative blockages.
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Khan is one of 26 new peers announced in a move that some critics call a resignation honours list, despite Starmer's earlier pledge to avoid such appointments. The timing, just before Starmer stands down, has raised eyebrows, though Downing Street sources insist it is part of a regular honours cycle.
What This Means for Andy Burnham and Labour's Future
Khan and Andy Burnham have worked closely on devolution challenges, but sources indicate Khan has no interest in joining a Burnham cabinet. He remains focused on his mayoral term and has not decided on a fourth run in 2028. This peerage could open doors for other Labour figures while keeping Khan in a powerful advisory role.
| Key Figures | Role | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Keir Starmer | Outgoing PM | Appoints 26 new peers |
| Sadiq Khan | London Mayor | Elevated to House of Lords |
| Andy Burnham | Mayor of Greater Manchester | Potential future cabinet leader |
Key Takeaways
- Sadiq Khan becomes a peer in the House of Lords under Keir Starmer's final honours list.
- The move aims to rebalance the Lords, which has long been Conservative-heavy.
- Khan remains committed to his mayoral term and has not ruled out a fourth term.
- Starmer's earlier promise to avoid resignation honours now appears broken.
- Labour's progressive wing gains a high-profile voice in the upper chamber.
Criticism and Controversy
Starmer's decision has drawn criticism from political opponents, who highlight his past condemnation of Boris Johnson's similar honours. As opposition leader, Starmer said Johnson's peerages were "difficult to justify." Now, he faces the same scrutiny. However, supporters note that Starmer has been appointing peers to counterbalance Conservative dominance and ensure Labour's legislative agenda moves forward.
FAQ
Why did Keir Starmer make Sadiq Khan a peer?
Starmer appointed Khan to strengthen Labour's presence in the House of Lords and reward a key ally, though critics see it as a resignation honour.
Will Sadiq Khan join Andy Burnham's cabinet?
No, sources close to Khan say he has no wish to be a minister and is focused on his mayoral term.
How many peers has Starmer appointed?
Starmer has appointed 66 peers since taking office, with 26 announced in this final list.
This development marks a significant moment in UK politics, as Starmer's legacy includes reshaping the House of Lords while facing accusations of hypocrisy. For Labour, it secures a powerful voice for London in the upper chamber, even as Khan's future remains open-ended.
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