‘Humbled’ Sadiq Khan vows to ‘build bridges’ in second term as London Mayor

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Sadiq Khan has said he is “truly humbled” to be elected for a second term as Mayor of London.

And he vowed to work to help “build bridges” in a country that remains “deeply divided”.

Before signing the official declaration of acceptance of office at Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, the mayor announced plans for the “biggest domestic tourism campaign the capital has ever seen”.

Called Let’s Do London, it will put arts and culture at the heart of the capital’s economic recovery following the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Khan addressed reporters from the Globe’s stage, where he was joined by award-winning British actor and director Adrian Lester.

“It is fitting that we’re here at the Globe today … because it is a story of resilience and renewal,” said the mayor.

“I am truly humbled by the trust that Londoners have placed in me (and) I promise to do my utmost to repay their trust by working tirelessly.

“London’s arts and culture is what helps to make this city one of the greatest in the world.

“It is time to put the dark days of the past behind us … for all those who call this great city home.”

Mr Khan said the election results showed that “our country, and even our city, remains deeply divided”.

“I pledge to build bridges that keep us closer together, rather than the walls that drive us apart,” he said.

Sadiq Khan added that Sir Keir Starmer was “right” to make changes to his team following the results of nationwide elections over the weekend.

“The results last week were mixed but Keir is right to make changes to make sure we can earn back the trust and confidence across the country,” he said.

“I’m really looking forward to working with Keir and the team, he sent me a really nice message after the weekend.

“I’m looking forward to helping the national party and showing that Labour can make a difference in London.”

He added: “I’ve been involved in reshuffles before, it’s like three-dimensional chess in relation to how you conduct them.

“I’m sure it’s not gone as smoothly as Keir would have liked … and I wish him well over the next 24 hours.

“He’s got a great new team around him.”