Sir Keir Starmer backs Donald Trump & slaps down Sadiq Khan for ‘fascist’ jibe

SIR Keir Starmer last night hailed Britain’s “unshakeable” bond with America — as he scrambled to contain a fresh row with Donald Trump.

On the eve of the inauguration, No10 had to slap down Sadiq Khan for implying the incoming President was a “fascist”.

The London Mayor’s broadside risked straining an already tense relationship between Labour and Mr Trump, who takes the Oath of Office today.

Ahead of the ceremony in Washington, the PM sent his “warmest congratulations” and played to Mr Trump’s love of Britain.

He said: “With President Trump’s longstanding affection and historical ties to the United Kingdom, I know that depth of friendship will continue.”

Sir Keir added: “We will continue to build upon the unshakeable foundations of our historic alliance as we tackle together the global challenges we face and take our partnership to the next level focused on shared opportunities ahead for growth.”

The PM is hoping to meet the new President in the White House next month.

Labour’s Mr Khan risked inflaming tensions yesterday by suggesting Mr Trump is part of “resurgent fascism haunting the West”.

He said: “The hard-right and far-right are on the march. These are deeply worrying times.”

But on the BBC, Cabinet Minister Darren Jones said: “I don’t agree with it.

"I speak on behalf of the Government, and we don’t agree with it.”

Shadow Foreign Secretary Dame Priti Patel said: “It’s really not for politicians in other countries to make disrespectful and disparaging comments about President-elect Trump.”

Mr Jones also dismissed reports Sir Keir’s pick for US Ambassador, Lord Mandelson, could be vetoed for the job.