London Mayor Sadiq Khan is reportedly set to receive a knighthood in the upcoming New Year Honours list for his contributions to political and public service. Whitehall insiders revealed the Labour politician, who became the first Muslim mayor of London in 2016 and secured a third term this year, will join a host of political veterans in being recognized.
The honours list is expected to include Labour MPs Emily Thornberry and Patricia Hewitt, who will receive a damehood and recognition for services to health, respectively. Conservative politicians, including former West Midlands Mayor Andy Street and long-serving MP Nick Gibb, are also slated for knighthoods for their contributions to public service and education.
Sadiq Khan’s recent initiatives, including the announcement of the £900 million “West London Orbital” rail line, reflect his focus on infrastructure development. The 11-mile project aims to connect London suburbs, with stations linking to the HS2 line. However, his tenure has not been without controversy, including criticism over a £6.3 million Overground rebranding project, which some labeled as wasteful spending.
The honours list, which requires final approval from Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and King Charles III, also includes Sue Gray, a former senior civil servant, who is reportedly being nominated for a peerage. Other honorees include retiring Labour MPs recognized for their parliamentary service.
Khan celebrated his re-election earlier this year, emphasizing his commitment to collaboration with a potential Labour government to deliver transformative change for London.
