Sadiq Khan today demanded the axing of Britain's biggest arms fair because it offends asylum seekers and is 'inappropriate' during Israel's Gaza campaign.
The London mayor hit out at the DSEI event being held from September 9-12, insisting the capital should not be used as a 'marketplace for those who wish to trade in weapons'.
He argued that the city is 'home to thousands of people who have fled conflict and suffered as a result of weapons like those exhibited at this event'.
The intervention was dismissed by defence industry insiders, who stressed they were helping protect people who are under 'ceaseless attack from our enemies'.
The UK government has already caused a backlash by barring Israeli officials from the event over growing concern about the war in Gaza.
