Keir Starmer Makes Sadiq Khan a Peer in House of Lords 2026

Keir Starmer has handed Sadiq Khan a peerage in the House of Lords just days before the prime minister stands down, potentially opening the door to one of Labour’s most high-profile mayors joining Andy Burnham’s cabinet in future. The London mayor has long been tipped for the Lords, with Starmer said to have been keen to put him there immediately after the May local elections in an attempt to shore up Labour’s progressive flank.

Why Starmer Elevated Khan Now

While Burnham and Khan have worked closely together over the years, and have a shared understanding of the challenges of devolution, the Guardian understands the mayor has told the prime minister-in-waiting that he has no wish to be a minister in his government. Sources close to Khan said he was committed to focusing on the last two years of his mayoral term, and has not yet announced whether he wants to seek a fourth term in 2028.

Khan is just one of 26 new peers announced by Starmer on Thursday, in a move likely to be criticised as he has already appointed 66 since coming to power two years ago. His supporters argue that he has been attempting to rebalance the House of Lords, which has been dominated for years by the Conservatives and, despite Labour’s majority in the Commons, has repeatedly tried to thwart legislation.

Timing and Political Fallout

Downing Street sources suggested Khan’s elevation came as part of a regular honours list, rather than being linked to Starmer’s departure. However, the timing was unusual, with peerages usually tied to political events and most commonly appearing in the spring or autumn. Starmer signalled last week that he could hand out resignation honours when he leaves Downing Street, despite pledging three years ago he would not do so when he eventually stood down.

As the opposition leader, he criticised Rishi Sunak for allowing Boris Johnson to hand out awards, including peerages, to his political allies, saying it was difficult to justify given the circumstances of his departure. Khan is among 16 new political appointments made by the prime minister.

Comparison of Peerage Appointments Under Recent PMs

Key Takeaways

• Sadiq Khan receives a peerage but plans to remain London mayor until 2028.
• Starmer has appointed 92 peers in two years, sparking debate over Lords reform.
• The timing of the honours list is unusual, coming days before Starmer steps down.
• Critics note Starmer’s earlier pledge to avoid resignation honours now appears broken.

FAQ

This development underscores the ongoing tension between Labour’s promise to reform the House of Lords and the political expediency of appointing allies. As Starmer prepares to leave office, the legacy of his peerage appointments will likely fuel debate for years to come.