Starmer to Offer Peerage to Sadiq Khan After Elections

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is preparing to offer London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan a peerage following the local elections on May 7, as part of an effort to secure support from one of his most prominent critics within the Labour Party. The move comes amid forecasts of significant losses for Labour in the elections, potentially threatening Starmer's leadership.

Sources close to the discussions indicate that the peerage would aim to bring Khan, who has openly challenged aspects of the government's direction, into closer alignment with Downing Street. Khan, knighted by Starmer last year, has criticized the administration's shift toward policies he views as neglecting progressive voters, including its support for a third runway at Heathrow Airport and efforts to reduce welfare spending. He has also voiced opposition to elements of the immigration strategy led by Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood. In recent months, Khan endorsed Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham's calls for a change in the prime minister's approach, further highlighting internal tensions.

The offer is expected to be extended after the elections, which polls suggest could see Labour lose up to 2,000 council seats to...