Tooting MP Sadiq Khan has resigned from his role in the shadow cabinet – paving the way for his mayoral ambitions.
Mr Khan tendered his resignation to acting Labour leader Harriet Harman today marking what’s expected to be his entry into the selection content which officially launches on Wednesday.
The Labour MP explained that it had been a ‘privilege’ to serve as Shadow Justice Secretary but now was the time to step down from his role.
He said: I’m passionate about our justice system and fought hard against what I saw as dangerous changes made to our courts, prisons and probation service.
“I’m proud we stood up for access to justice and for the important protection offered by the Human Rights Act and our membership of the European Convention on Human Rights.
“I’m naturally devastated that there won’t be a Labour Justice Secretary to repair the damage done by the coalition over the last five years.
“But after a period of reflection I have decided that I should step down from serving in the Shadow Cabinet.
“This is an opportunity for others to take on a leading role as we start the fightback for 2020.
Being Shadow Justice Secretary for last 4 1/2 yrs has been a privilege but now is the right time to step down http://t.co/mA2GmCGXgA
— Sadiq Khan MP (@SadiqKhan) May 11, 2015
He claimed that another five years of a Tory government would mean ‘more misery and suffering’ for his Tooting constituents and others across the country.
Ms Harman paid tribute to the ‘outstanding’ Shadow Justice Secretary and wished him the best for the future.
She said: “I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours and know that you will continue to make a major contribution to public life and the Labour Party.”
Image courtesy of BBC via YouTube, with thanks
