All registered London voters are being invited to help choose the Conservative Party’s candidate for Mayor.
The party says it will hold an online primary in which everyone who is on the electoral roll will be able to take part, with non-members paying a £1 registration fee.
Applications to stand are now open and a shortlist of 2-3 candidates will be announced by the end of July with voting taking place after candidates have taken part in “several official hustings”.
The winning candidate will be announced in September.
Richmond MP Zac Goldmsith, London’s deputy mayor for policing Stephen Greenhalgh, footballer Sol Campbell, London Assembly member Andrew Boff, MEP Syed Kamall and businessman Ivan Massow have all declared their interest in standing.
The party previously held a primary in 2008 when it selected Boris Johnson who went on to win two terms at City Hall. Mr Johnson is stepping down at next May’s election to pursue his political career in the Commons.
London Regional Chairman Ian Twinn, said: “Once again we are inviting Londoners to help us choose our candidate for the London Mayoral Election. Anyone, whether or not they are a party member, can register to vote in the primary. This will give everyone in London ownership of the process.
“In 2016 Londoners will face a choice: we can build on the great achievements under Boris Johnson which has seen more jobs created, transport infrastructure improved and more homes built, or let in a Labour candidate who will only offer more borrowing, more spending and higher taxes – taking London backwards.”
Labour is also holding a primary to select its candidate, with non-members paying £3 to take part.
