Sadiq Khan has been elected as Labour's candidate for Mayor of London.
The Tooting MP has beaten Tessa Jowell, Diane Abbott, David Lammy, Gareth Thomas and Christian Wolmar to run for the prestigious role.
The announcement was made just after 12.30pm at the Royal Festival Hall in south east London.
Half an hour after the result was announced he confirmed he would stand down as MP if chosen as Mayor of London.
Sadiq Khan tells us he never thought it would be a close race. Confirms he'll quit as MP if he wins mayoralty. pic.twitter.com/kMTljqs11b
— Emily Ashton (@elashton) September 11, 2015
He was not available for interview this afternoon.
But in a statement, he said:
"I am deeply humbled to have received the support of tens of thousands of Londoners.
"I am determined to repay that trust by winning the Mayoral election next May, and making a real difference to Londoners lives.
"London gave me and my family huge opportunities. A council house so we could save for a deposit to buy our own home.
"A secure job for my dad as a bus driver. A great education for me and my siblings, affordable university places and good quality apprenticeships.
"As Mayor I will provide more opportunities for all Londoners.
"My priorities for Londoners are clear. An affordable and secure home to rent or buy. More jobs with higher wages for the lowest paid.
"Making it easier to set up and run a successful business. Reducing the cost of commuting and making London's environment safer, healthier and less polluted."
How are politicians and commentators reacting to the result on Twitter?
Congratulations @SadiqKhan for becoming London's Labour mayoral candidate-regardless of leadership result I look forward to working with him
— Jeremy Corbyn MP (@jeremycorbyn) September 11, 2015
A Pakistani Muslim Sadiq Khan is nominated for London Mayor by Labour Party...! pic.twitter.com/RYdnjXAaEG
— listenplz (@raja1232009) September 11, 2015
Sadiq Khan seems like a good choice for Lab's #londonmayor candidate. Shows how much trouble the Blairites are in.
— Alex (@alex_titcomb) September 11, 2015
Should @ZacGoldsmith win the conservative nomination, both Labour and Con candidates will oppose heathrow 3rd runway. #londonmayor
— Oliver Hayes (@olliehayes) September 11, 2015
The Conservatives are now expected to announce their candidate at the end of the month.
The Liberal Democrats selected London Assembly member Caroline Pidgeon after the other person on their shortlist, Duwayne Brooks, a close friend of murdered teenager Stephen Lawrence.
The Green Party have selected Sian Berry as their candidate.
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