Sir Sadiq Khan has become the highest-paid politician in the UK after accepting a £5,281 pay rise, bringing his annual salary to £170,282. The increase, which is 3.2 per cent, is linked to the local government settlement and follows recommendations from an independent panel.
The London mayor’s salary now exceeds Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s total of £169,344, though Starmer would earn more if he claimed his full ministerial allowance. The pay rise was quietly published on the Greater London Authority website as part of the mayor’s official biography.
A spokesperson for Khan said the increase was determined impartially and in line with long-standing practice. They added that City Hall staff numbers have grown to reflect the mayor’s expanded powers and responsibilities, including new posts for emergencies, devolved skills funding, and health and care improvements.
The number of staff at City Hall has risen by nine per cent in the past year to a record 1,615, including 90 agency staff. The average salary is £62,537, but 238 employees earn £80,000 or more, with 68 earning over £100,000. The mayor’s office employs 50 people, two-thirds of whom earn at least £80,000.
Emma Best, deputy leader of the City Hall Conservatives, criticised the expansion, saying many Londoners would be “infuriated” by the increase in staff while police stations are being closed. She argued for a reduced headcount to save millions for frontline services.
