New Peerage List Announced Before Leadership Change
London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has been selected as one of 26 new peers who will receive seats in the House of Lords. The announcement came during one of Sir Keir Starmer’s final official decisions before leaving office as prime minister.
The new list includes 16 Labour nominees, five Liberal Democrats, three Conservatives, and two independent crossbench members. The appointments still require formal approval from King Charles III before they become official.
Sir Sadiq described the nomination as a great honour and said he remains focused on serving the people of London.
Sadiq Khan Focuses on London Instead of Government Role
A seat in the House of Lords could allow Sir Sadiq to serve as a government minister in the future. However, reports indicate that he is not seeking a ministerial position in Andy Burnham’s incoming government.
Instead, he plans to continue concentrating on London’s future. He remains committed to improving public services, increasing safety, expanding housing, and making the capital greener.
Sir Sadiq is currently serving his third term as London mayor. Although questions have been raised about another mayoral campaign in 2028, he has not made a final decision.
Other Well Known Figures Receive Peerages
The Labour nominations also include broadcaster June Sarpong and former trade union leader Christina McAnea.
The independent crossbench appointments include former Cabinet Secretary Sir Chris Wormald and retired senior judge Sir Brian Leveson. Their experience in public service and law is expected to strengthen debates in the House of Lords.
The government stated that King Charles III has approved the intention to grant these peerages through the official honours process.
Peerage List Prepared Before Resignation
Government officials said the nominations were prepared before Sir Keir Starmer announced his decision to step down as Labour leader. They described the appointments as political peerages rather than traditional resignation honours.
Earlier, Sir Keir had questioned the practice of awarding resignation honours. However, he later indicated that such honours could still be issued before leaving Downing Street.
Government Praises Sadiq Khan’s Leadership
Government representatives praised Sir Sadiq Khan for his leadership as London mayor. They credited him with helping reduce violent crime, improving air quality, supporting the construction of new council homes, and overseeing major transport improvements, including the Elizabeth Line.
His spokesperson thanked the government for the recognition and said Sir Sadiq would continue working to build a fairer, safer, and greener London for everyone.
The announcement marks another important step in Sir Sadiq Khan’s political career while leaving open the possibility of future roles in national politics.
