What changed Sadiq? London Mayor Khan is caught on camera saying the House of Lords should be abolished just four years ago – now he is happily its latest member
Sadiq Khan was caught on camera saying the House of Lords should be abolished just four years ago, despite being its last member.
The Mayor of London is one of 15 new Labor members announced in Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation honors list, placing 10th for Andy Burnham to become Prime Minister on Monday.
But a video of Sir Sadiq discussing his progress as Mayor of London in 2022 has now exposed his hypocrisy.
At the London Assembly meeting, Khan addressed the heated argument he had at City Hall with his Conservative colleague Shaun Bailey, who is running against him for the mayoralty in 2021.
He said: ‘This exchange between Shaun Bailey and I is proof that we should abolish the House of Lords, if the need arises.’
But Sir Sadiq is among 25 new peers from all parties who will now be entitled to £390 tax-free for every day they spend in the Lords.
There are usually 150 sessions held a year, meaning if Sir Sadiq attends every session he will receive £58,500 on top of his £170,000 salary as mayor.
Aides did not immediately say whether he would accept the payment or donate it to charity.
Just four years ago Sir Sadiq Khan called for the abolition of the House of Lords but he has now been appointed as a peer
In video from a London Assembly meeting, the Mayor of London said the heated debate between himself and Lord Bailey was proof that this should not have happened
Sir Sadiq was one of 15 new Labor members announced in Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation honor roll
Despite his controversial appointment, Sir Sadiq will not give up his position and could leave as late as 2028, when his third term ends.
Joining the House of Lords would also give him the opportunity to become a government minister, but it is understood he will not accept a post under Mr Burnham.
It is not yet clear what the new Prime Minister thinks of Sir Keir’s appointments.
In the latest appointments to the Lords, the Conservatives nominated three new peers, including former army chief General Patrick Sanders and Carphone Warehouse founder David Ross.
The Liberal Democrats were given five running mates, but no nominations for Reform from the outgoing Prime Minister.
A spokesman for the Mayor of London said: ‘We are honored that Sadiq has been given the peerage.
‘London has given Sadiq the opportunity to become Mayor from a council estate and his focus will continue to be on ensuring all Londoners have the same chance to achieve the full potential that London has to offer him and his family.
‘Serving as Mayor of the greatest city in the world remains the privilege of Sadiq’s life.
‘He is excited about what more can be done in the coming years and will dedicate his time and energy to defending our city and building a fairer, safer, greener London for everyone.’
