Donald proposes, Sadiq Khan disposes

Donald Trump and Sadiq Khan

'Will exempt Sadiq Khan from Muslim ban'

Washington: Presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump has said as US President he would make an exception for London's first Muslim mayor Sadiq Khan in his proposed temporary ban on the entry of Muslims to the US.

You're welcome, Khan: Donald Trump

"I was happy to see that. I think it's a very good thing, and I hope he does a very good job because frankly that would be very, very good," Trump told The New York Times when asked about Khan.

Khan, who has been critical of Trump's policies, had earlier said he would not be able to travel to the US if the 69-year-old tycoon was elected as the president. But Trump stated otherwise, "There will always be exceptions," he said. "Because I think if he does a great job, it will really - you lead by example, always lead by example. If he does a good job and frankly if he does a great job, that would be a terrific thing," Trump said.

'Won't be ignorant Trump's exception'

London: London's first Muslim Mayor Sadiq Khan yesterday hit out at Donald Trump for signalling that he would exempt him from his proposed temporary ban on Muslims entering the US.

No thanks, Trump: Sadiq Khan Pics/AFP

"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," Khan said in his rebuttal. "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 [but] London has proved him wrong," the 44-year-old added. Khan also said he is supporting Hillary Clinton in her bid for the White House: "I hope she trounces him (Trump)."