Boris - 'Give London back to Londoners'

Updated 21.43 Mon Dec 31 2007
Keywords: Boris Johnson

Mayor of London candidate Boris Johnson says he wants to "give London back to Londoners" after a spate of youth crime.

The Conservative hopeful also accused current mayor Ken Livingstone of "wastefulness bordering on corruption" in a New Year's message.

Mr Johnson said: "It is time for an end to the tragic series of gang-related stabbings and shootings that have cost the lives of 28 teenagers and which are spreading a pall of insecurity over too much of the city"

Mr Johnson is hoping to unseat Mr Livingstone in elections in May.

He said his priority if elected would be to make London safer after a year that has seen 28 teenagers die violent deaths in the capital.

Mr Johnson said: "It is time for an end to the tragic series of gang-related stabbings and shootings that have cost the lives of 28 teenagers and which are spreading a pall of insecurity over too much of the city.

"I want all Londoners to have the optimism and confidence that goes with increased safety on the streets, on the buses, at station platforms - and the sense of opportunity that comes with better transport and wonderful new housing."

He added: "It is time we gave London back to Londoners."

© Independent Television News Limited 2007. All rights reserved.