During a live GB News broadcast, controversy erupted over London Mayor Sadiq Khan being knighted in Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s New Year’s Honors List. Critics, including Conservative MPs, accused Starmer of rewarding failure, pointing to Khan’s track record on rising knife crime and the controversial expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which they claim has disproportionately affected low-income workers.
Knife crime in London has risen by 50% since Khan took office in 2016, while council tax has also increased by 71% under his leadership. Additionally, the ULEZ expansion has forced many Londoners to upgrade their vehicles to comply with emissions standards, which critics say places an undue burden on working-class residents. These issues have fueled accusations that Khan’s knighthood is more of a “consolation prize” than a recognition of genuine achievement.
Political commentator Theo Usherwood remarked:
Usherwood labeled Starmer’s move as hypocritical, pointing to the Labour leader’s previous vow to avoid giving honors to political allies. “Starmer promised not to hand out gongs to his pals, yet he’s done exactly that,” said Usherwood. He suggested the knighthood was a consolation prize for Khan, who was overlooked for a cabinet position, with his former deputy, Heidi Alexander, securing the role of Transport Secretary instead.”
Khan’s knighthood has also drawn attention to his relationship with Starmer. The two share a long history, both being London MPs and lawyers before entering politics. However, critics argue this decision contradicts Starmer’s earlier promise to avoid political favoritism in the honors system.
Usherwood noted:
“Khan’s exclusion from Starmer’s cabinet suggests he’s unlikely to rise further in government. This knighthood feels like a consolation for not being offered a more significant political role.”
Supporters of Khan highlighted his electoral success, having won three consecutive terms as mayor—a rare achievement for Labour politicians since Tony Blair. Some argue his leadership has been pivotal in navigating London through complex challenges.
“Khan’s electoral record speaks for itself. He’s one of the most successful Labour politicians in recent history,” Usherwood added.
The controversy over Khan’s knighthood overshadowed other notable names on the honors list, including Gareth Southgate, Alan Titchmarsh, and Stephen Fry. Fry expressed being “startled and enchanted” by his recognition.
Lesley Hustle, an expert on awards and honors, emphasized the importance of acknowledging unsung heroes:
“While public attention often focuses on big names, 90% of the honorees are ordinary people doing extraordinary things—like the mother who set up a charity for children undergoing cancer treatment or the shipwreck hunter who’s contributed to maritime history.”
