Sadiq Khan and Zac Goldsmith clash in live debate as London mayoral election draws closer

Laura Proto22 April 2016
WEST END FINAL

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London mayoral hopefuls Sadiq Khan and Zac Goldsmith went head-to-head on key policy issues in one of the final debates ahead of next month’s election.

The 90-minute Evening Standard hustings event at the Royal Geographical Society saw the Labour and Conservative candidates clash over topics including housing, the European Union, transport and policing.

Tensions were heightened when debate turned to the topic of extremism, with Mr Goldsmith questioning Mr Khan about his former brother-in-law, who was linked to one of the UK’s most notorious extremist organisations.

Both the Conservative and Labour candidates promised the audience that they would be the best choice to succeed Boris Johnson as Mayor of London.

Mr Goldsmith admitted that “promises are cheap” in the run up to an election, but added that his record as an MP for North Kingston and Richmond Park “shows I keep my promises”.

Crowd: The audience was full of both Conservative and Labour supporters
Nigel Howard

Mr Khan, MP for Tooting, said he wanted to become mayor because he wants “all Londoners to have the opportunities this great city gave to me.”

The Conservative candidate went on to criticise his Labour counterpart about his unwillingness to talk to Government, which he said would put London at risk.

Mr Khan responded that if he “had the privilege” of being elected Mayor of London, he would work with the Prime Minister and Chancellor to keep the UK in the EU.

Questions were also asked to both politicians about the housing market, the diversity of London, regrets from their campaigns and Crossrail 2.

As the debate came to a close, Mr Khan branded London “the greatest city in the world”, but said the capital was at a crossroads.

Mr Goldsmith outlined key areas of his campaign and said voters should use their voices to support his pledge to freeze council tax and investment in new homes.

To re-read out live blog coverage and to watch a video stream of the event, click or tap here.

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