Mayoral Candidates Woo Business Leaders

Speaking at an event organised by London First Sian Berry, Boris Johnson, Ken Livingstone and Brian Paddick were trying to woo the business vote last night.

The four each spoke about their policies for London before taking part in a question and answer session which rapidly became a two-way debate between Johnson and Livingstone.

At times Sian Berry, and to an even greater extend Brian Paddick, struggled  to get heard as the frontrunners clashed over the proposed £25 a day congestion charge and use of targets to encourage the building of affordable housing.

Throughout the evening Livingstone’s manner and tone was of the experienced, knowledgeable veteran while Johnson came across as an enthusiastic and passionate challenger.

However despite stressing his business experience the Tory candidate hit a duff note when he questioned the need for London to have offices in foreign cities, an initiative backed by business leaders and defended by attendees.

Johnson, who has previously been opposed to the offices, said he was now “persuadable” on the need for them.