London mayor ‘broke election rules’ over new train line

SADIQ Khan was accused of breaking pre-election rules yesterday by revealing the opening date of a new underground train line.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps accused the London mayor of ‘breathtaking political cynicism’ by announcing the Elizabeth Line, named after the Queen, will open on May 24.

He said it appeared to be timed to coincide with today’s local elections.

Mr Shapps has referred the incident to the Electoral Commission for investigation over a potential breach of purdah.

Purdah rules restrict what political communications can be made in the run-up to public polls. But Mr Khan hit back, accusing Mr Shapps of trying to ‘start a row rather than join the celebrations’.

He claimed the transport department had been told about the announcement ‘well in advance’. In a further twist, Boris Johnson waded into the row by claiming credit for the announcement.

He said the Elizabeth Line, pictured, which is also known as Crossrail, was opening thanks to funding he secured while London mayor more than a decade ago. It was originally due to open in 201 but has faced major delays. The original budget was £14. billion, which has since risen to almost £19billion.

Transport for London, which has Mr Khan as chairman, revealed trains will initially stop at nine stations between Abbey Wood, in south-east London, and Paddington in west London.