In summary, Sir Sadiq Khan has strongly defended immigrants, rejecting negative labels and highlighting their significant contributions to London’s economy and culture.
While he acknowledges the need for border control, he emphasizes the positive impact skilled migrants have on the country, contrasting this with the economic cost of some native-born workers.
Amid the heated debate sparked by Sir Keir Starmer’s comments and ongoing political tensions, Sir Sadiq remains focused on his current role as mayor and has no immediate plans to pursue further leadership, urging patience as the future unfolds.
In a speech at Downing Street on Monday, the Prime Minister pledged that a Labour Government would ‘take back control of our borders’ and put an end to what he described as a ‘squalid chapter’ for politics and the economy.
Speaking on Tuesday, the London Mayor made it clear that he would not have chosen the same words as the Prime Minister, saying, ‘Those aren’t words I would use.’
Sir Sadiq, whose parents immigrated to London from Pakistan, acknowledged the significant contributions migrants have made to the city’s economic, social, and cultural life over the years.
He expressed his gratitude to migrants, saying, ‘I want to thank those who are migrants for everything they do for our great city.’
‘As the son of immigrants, I can say from personal experience that I’m proud to be both a Londoner and a Brit,’ he added.
Sir sadiq proposed that Sir keir was likely referring to immigration pledges made by brexiteers and did not intend to criticize the contributions of immigrants to London over multiple generations.
The mayor stressed that skilled immigrants contribute positively to the economy, unlike some ‘native’ Britons, who he claimed have a negative financial impact on the uk.
He mentioned that a skilled migrant contributes around £16,000 to the economy each year, taking into account the expenses they may incur for public services, as well as the contributions made by their family, which amount to approximately £12,000.
In contrast, the family of a highly skilled British worker is estimated to contribute £4,400 to the economy.
Sir sadiq also mentioned that more than a third of the fastest-growing businesses in the uk were started or co-founded by migrants.
‘the idea that skilled migrants are spongers or skivers is simply untrue,’ the mayor asserted
However, he also stated, ‘I do believe we should have control over our borders.’.
During his regular ‘Speak with Sadiq’ phone-in on LBC, the mayor was asked about the Prime Minister’s recent speech on immigration.
Several left-wing Labour MPs in London publicly criticized Sir Keir’s comments on Tuesday.
When asked if the controversy might boost his chances of running for Labour leader, Sir Sadiq dismissed the idea as ‘mischief-making.’
Regarding his plans for a possible fourth term as mayor in 2028, he said, ‘We’ll have to wait and see closer to the next election.’
He added, ‘I only recently won a historic, record-breaking landslide victory. Let’s see what the future holds.’
In conclusion, Sir Sadiq Khan firmly defended the positive impact of immigrants on London’s economy and society, challenging negative stereotypes and emphasizing their vital contributions. While advocating for sensible border control, he highlighted the importance of recognizing migrants as valuable members of the community.
Amid ongoing political debate and criticism, Sir Sadiq remains focused on his role as mayor and has no immediate plans to seek further leadership, urging patience as the future unfolds.