Hamed Chapman

Not quite as emphatic but perhaps equally startling, former Shadow Justice Secretary, Sadiq Khan, saw off five other Labour candidates to win the Party’s nomination to stand for the Mayor of London next year.

The 45-year old Muslim MP from Totting defeated a strong challenge, including former Minister for London and the Olympics, Tessa Jowell, who was favourite to win the race. Others standing were former ministers David Lammy and Gareth Thomas, Labour veteran MP Diane Abbott and transport expert Christian Wolmar.

“I am determined to repay that trust by winning the Mayoral election next May, and making a real difference to Londoners lives. London gave me and my family huge opportunities,” the son of a bus driver said after his victory.

“My priorities for Londoners are clear. An affordable and secure home to rent or buy. More jobs with higher wages for the lowest paid. Making it easier to set up and run a successful business. Reducing the cost of commuting and making London’s environment safer, healthier and less polluted.”

Running an annual budget of nearly £18 billion, more than some small countries, the job of London Mayor is considered the second most important in Britain in terms of political power after the prime minister’s.

Next year’s election is to replace Conservative Mayor Boris Johnson. The Tories are due to select their candidate by the end of September but Richmond Park MP Zac Goldsmith seen as the frontrunner.