London Mayor Sadiq Khan has been introduced to the House of Lords, an event marked by traditional ceremony and a notable display of affection towards fellow Labour peers. This elevation to life peerage comes as the Labour party grapples with internal divisions over a proposed 'visitor levy,' a tax on overnight stays.
During a debate on the proposed tax, Labour's Jim McMahon, minister for local government, defended the policy, which he referred to as the 'visitor levy.' However, the proposal faced immediate criticism from within his own party. Emma Lewell, a Labour MP, argued that the tax would deter families from visiting her constituency and could lead to the ruin of guest houses, calling it 'the wrong tax at the wrong time.'
McMahon encountered further challenges when questioned about the potential implications for various groups. MPs raised concerns about potential exemptions for the disabled, parents of ill children requiring hospital stays, and even boy scouts on expeditions. The minister, described as 'amiably foggy,' indicated he would 'look at' such exemptions, suggesting the policy could become an 'administrative horror.'
Some Labour backbenchers voiced support for the tax, particularly those from tourist-heavy areas like Cornwall and Bournemouth. However, Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling pointed out that countries like Spain, Italy, and France, which have similar tourism taxes, also maintain lower VAT rates on hotels. Demands were also made for the tax revenue to be specifically allocated for tourist facilities, a commitment McMahon did not make.
Meanwhile, Khan's introduction ceremony in the House of Lords was detailed, involving supporters Helena Kennedy and Neil Kinnock. The report notes Khan's physical appearance, stating his robes may have been difficult to fit due to his stature, and that he had one arm in a sling. The ceremony concluded with Khan exchanging embraces and kisses with several Labour peers, including Lady Smith, Lord Katz, Lady Anderson, and Lord Cashman, an action that elicited a reaction from the Lord Speaker, Lord Forsyth.
The article concludes by questioning whether Khan will step down as Mayor of London now that he has become a life peer, suggesting his mayoral tenure may have served its purpose for him, regardless of its impact on London.