Press Release

London First response to Ken Livingstone’s campaign launch. 

18 March 2008

A London First spokesman said: 

"Ken must be judged on what he has achieved as well as what he will do if re-elected.

“In his first term, he delivered on congestion charge, but we have slipped back towards gridlock.  Beating growing congestion should remain a priority - and remains the best way to lower climate change emissions.  In his second term, he helped to secure London First's long term goal of funding for Crossrail; he mustn't take his eye off the ball on getting it built on time and on budget.

"This time around, the 2012 Games offers a potential catalyst for change - particularly in spreading the benefits of success to East Londoners. But regeneration won't occur automatically - partly it's about attracting private sector investment by creating the right business environment.

"London remains one of the safest international cities in the world in which to live and work, but steps are needed to make the capital feel safer for everyone.  Ken has worked with the Home Office to deliver more police and officer support, but hasn't been as quick to grasp the nettle on public transport safety or to acknowledge the impact on Londoners' sense of well-being of a rise in violent offences over the past five years."