Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, has been awarded a peerage by Prime Minister Keir Starmer just days before Starmer is set to leave office. The move could pave the way for Khan to join a future cabinet under Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, who has proposed reforming the House of Lords into a 'senate of regions and nations' with seats for metro mayors.
Khan reportedly not seeking ministerial role now
While Burnham and Khan have collaborated closely over the years, the Guardian understands that Khan has told the incoming prime minister that he has no immediate desire to serve as a minister in the new government. Sources close to the mayor indicate he is focused on the remaining two years of his current term and has not yet decided whether to seek a fourth term in 2028.
Timing of peerage raises eyebrows
Downing Street sources suggest Khan's elevation is part of a routine honours list rather than being tied to Starmer's departure. However, the timing is unusual, as peerages are typically linked to political events and most often announced in spring or autumn. This comes after Starmer indicated last week that he might issue resignation honours upon leaving Downing Street, despite pledging three years ago not to do so.
The full list of 26 individuals receiving peerages has been published.
