London Mayor Race

CHAN:
Londoners hit the polls yesterday, deciding on who their next mayor will be. Let's learn more about who's running.

STORY:
The battle to take control of one of the world's wealthiest cities is reaching its climax. Throughout Thursday Londoners have voted on who should be their next Mayor.

Seeking a third term is Mayor Ken Livingstone of the ruling Labour Party. But he faces a big threat from this man. He's Boris Johnson of the main opposition Conservative Party. Both are considered maverick figures, but politically they are poles part.

By supporters, the 62 year old Livingstone is viewed as a frank and tough operator who gets things done.
Opponents say Livingstone is untrustworthy and profligate surrounding himself with over-paid cronies.

Johnson is the Oxford-educated joker whose vision for London has reassured many worried about violent street crime. But critics say Johnson is a privileged old school reactionary who lacks a serious edge.

As mayor Livingstone is perhaps best know for introducing the traffic congestion charge. Applauded by environmentalists the scheme's westward extension has though angered many locals.

Both candidates have touted their eco-credentials while vowing to solve London's chronic transport problems.

The job of London Mayor has only been going eight years. But it's quickly emerged as one of the most powerful positions in city politics anywhere in the world. The winner takes control of a global financial powerhouse and gets a yearly budget worth eleven billion pounds.

Over the next four years the Mayor also has the added cachet of preparing London to host the 2012 Olympics. But in this race there are no medals for coming second and with the finishing line in sight the outcome still remains too close to call.

Category:

News & Politics

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