Keir Starmer criticized Donald Trump’s recent controversial remarks about London Mayor Sadiq Khan, calling them “absurd.” The US President made disparaging comments about Mr. Khan, suggesting that London’s leaders were pushing for Sharia law, a claim that Mr. Khan vehemently denied, labeling Trump as “racist” and “Islamophobic.”
When questioned by ITV London about Trump’s comments, Starmer came to the defense of Mayor Khan, describing him as a “decent individual.” Trump’s verbal assault on Khan occurred during the UN General Assembly following his second state visit to the UK.
Starmer stated, “While there are areas of agreement between the President and me, this is not one of them. The notion of Sharia law being implemented is baseless. Sadiq Khan is a reputable figure who has been successful in reducing serious crimes.”
When asked if he concurred with Khan’s assessment of Trump as being sexist, racist, and Islamophobic, Starmer refrained from engaging in a verbal dispute. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the US and the UK while expressing admiration for London and its mayor’s effective governance.
During a lengthy speech, Trump criticized London’s mayor, describing him as “terrible” and implying significant changes had occurred under his leadership. In response, Khan remarked on Trump’s apparent fixation, questioning why the President was preoccupied with a Muslim mayor governing a diverse and prosperous city.
Khan asserted, “President Trump’s words and actions demonstrate his prejudice and bigotry towards various groups, including racism, sexism, and Islamophobia.”
