Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Political.
Sadiq Khan’s Knighthood and Mixed Reactions
London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s knighthood has drawn both praise and sharp criticism, reflecting the divided opinions surrounding his political legacy. Foreign Secretary David Lammy celebrated the recognition, highlighting Khan’s rise from the son of a bus driver to receiving one of the nation’s highest honors. Lammy commended Khan for his efforts to improve London’s air quality, increase council housing, and provide free school meals.
However, Conservative critics were less enthusiastic, citing issues such as rising knife crime and housing shortages under Khan’s leadership.
Conservative Criticism: Knife Crime and Housing Targets
Chris Philp, a prominent Conservative figure, condemned the knighthood, pointing to a reported 61% increase in knife crime during Khan’s tenure, missed housing targets, and a 70% rise in council tax as indicators of failure.
Philp remarked, “Under Sadiq Khan, Londoners have faced a housing crisis and escalating knife crime. Rewarding failure only reinforces Labour’s Party-first mentality, putting the country second.”
A petition against Khan’s award, organized by Conservative councillor Matthew Goodwin-Freeman, added to the opposition.
Khan, undeterred by the criticism, remarked, “I don’t expect this to be the last time the Conservatives criticize me.”
Khan’s Political Journey
Sadiq Khan began his career as a human rights lawyer before being elected as the Labour MP for Tooting in 2005. In 2016, he became London’s first Muslim mayor, succeeding Boris Johnson, and has since won re-election twice.
Khan’s tenure has been marked by efforts to tackle air pollution through initiatives like the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and increased investments in social housing, though critics argue these efforts have been overshadowed by rising crime and fiscal challenges.
Dame Emily Thornberry and Other Honorees
Dame Emily Thornberry, MP for Islington South since 2005, expressed surprise and honor at being named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Reflecting on the milestone, Thornberry said, “I think of my grandmothers, neither of whom were allowed to work as married women, and I know how utterly delighted they’d be to see this.”
Thornberry, who once refrained from adopting the title of “Lady Nugee” when her husband was knighted, said she was proud to go by the title of Dame Emily.
Other Honorees Across the Political Spectrum
Several other political figures received honors in the annual list:
- Sir Andy Street, West Midlands’ first mayor, described his knighthood as an accolade for the collective efforts in his region.
- Ranil Jayawardena, former environment secretary, and Marcus Jones, ex-Conservative deputy chief whip, were also knighted.
- Kate Hollern, a former Labour MP, was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).
- Lord Mike Katz, chair of the Jewish Labour Movement, was named a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
A Divisive Recognition
While Sadiq Khan’s knighthood has been celebrated by his supporters as a recognition of his contributions to London, it has also sparked controversy among critics who view his tenure through a more critical lens. The debate surrounding this honor underscores the complexities of public service and political leadership in the capital.
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