London’s housing crisis is a longstanding problem and can only be solved through increasing supply. I will get London building real affordable housing, something the current Mayor has failed to achieve. It is critical we simplify planning rules and increase the development of private and public sector projects, including on brownfield sites. I also understand that for many living in our capital, the need for a helping hand is urgent, and cannot wait. This is particularly true for young people, many of whom will suffer most from the economic consequences of Covid-19. That’s why, if elected, I will commit to council tax reform, and seek an exemption for tenants aged under 25.

Covid-19 has hit London hard. Because of the uptake of home working, thousands of businesses that service commuters and shoppers face extinction. Unless immediate action is taken, our city risks being hollowed out from the centre. We need a Mayor who not only recognises the scale of threat but has a compelling vision for our city’s economic recovery. Covid-19 has accelerated the UK’s transition to a digital economy. I want to see London’s tech cluster become the world’s biggest hub outside of Silicon Valley. To achieve this, I will upgrade London’s connectivity by expanding full fibre broadband. Our coverage is just over 16%, way behind many of our international counterparts in Asia. I will also deepen London’s talent pool by encouraging the uptake of free courses of coding and artificial intelligence in educational centres open for all ages and backgrounds. For the next generation, I will provide grants for vulnerable children to have laptop and Wi-Fi access for schoolwork.

Crime in London has spiralled out of control. The decision to close 38 of the 73 police stations with front desks was a grave mistake, and something I’d take steps to reverse immediately. People feel increasingly unsafe in their own neighbourhoods. The spread of knife crime and gang violence is a scourge that must be eradicated. I will get 6,000 more officers and special constables on the beat and ensure they have the equipment they need to detect knives and drugs. I’ll work closely with communities to tackle the core issues behind youth violence and introduce youth empowerment initiatives, that will generate the next generation of all stars, representing our Country all over the world. Speaking to people across London, it is clear how much we all value the contribution police officers make to our safety. I want this to be reflected in the pay and benefits they receive, including private medical care. As Mayor I will always stand by our police forces on the frontline.