Sadiq Khan Rejects Trump Muslim Ban 'Exemption'

New London Mayor Sadiq Khan has dismissed suggestions from Donald Trump that he could be an "exception" to his proposed ban on Muslims entering the US.

"This isn’t just about me - it’s about my friends, my family and everyone who comes from a background similar to mine, anywhere in the world,” said Mr Khan.

“Donald Trump’s ignorant view of Islam could make both our countries less safe - it risks alienating mainstream Muslims around the world and plays into the hands of the extremists.

“Donald Trump and those around him think that western liberal values are incompatible with mainstream Islam - London has proved him wrong.”

Mr Trump, the presumptive Republican candidate, was widely criticised when he proposed a temporary ban on Muslims entering the US following the attacks in Paris last year in which 130 people were killed.

Mr Khan, the son of Pakistani immigrants, said he wanted to go to the US, but would have to visit the country before January in case Mr Trump won the November election.

But Mr Trump told The New York Times "there will always be exceptions" when he was asked how his controversial proposal would apply to the newly elected Mayor of London.

Mr Trump said he was "happy" to see Mr Khan elected, adding: "You lead by example, always lead by example. If he does a good job... that would be a terrific thing."

Mr Khan's victory for Labour ended eight years of Conservative leadership at City Hall, under Boris Johnson.

He received a total of 1,310,143 votes - 57% of the total - compared to Conservative Zac Goldsmith's 994,614, after the capital had its largest ever turnout at 45.6%.