SADIQ KHAN will be Labour’s candidate at the 2020 election after backing from the GMB union pushed him over the threshold to avoid a challenger.

GMB confirmed yesterday that it had submitted its formal nomination papers ahead of the September 30 deadline. Constituency parties and affiliates have been voting since June.

The union praised Mr Khan for establishing the first-ever City Hall programme to build new council housing and social rent homes, cracking down on dodgy landlords, “bold” initiatives to reduce air pollution, and freezing Transport for London (TfL) fares for four years. 

It also paid tribute to the City Hall investment in the Met Police to tackle gun and knife crime, as well as a £45 million fund to create more positive opportunities for young Londoners.

GMB London regional secretary Warren Kenny said: “Two years ago Londoners elected Sadiq Khan as London Mayor by a thumping margin in the face of a nasty and divisive campaign from the Tories.

“Since he came to office our mayor has consistently championed people living and working in London.

“We are proud to be giving GMB’s firm backing to Sadiq Khan to carry on the job of making London a fairer and more equal city.”