Centre for Cities calls on Boris to make London's economy a top priority...

Date: 09/05/2008

As Boris Johnson reaches the end of his first week as Mayor, he's already started to tackle his top policy priority: crime in the capital. Boris's focus is understandable, as crime was at the heart of his campaign.

Over the next four years, the Centre for Cities would like to see London's economy as the Mayor's next high-profile priority, especially given the current slowdown.

As it works to boost economic growth, London's new administration faces four big challenges - around employment and skills, housing, transport and accountability. We look forward to working with Boris and his team to develop clear plans for economic growth - and delivering greater prosperity for all Londoners.

Challenge 1: London's workforce

How can Boris use his personal mandate - and his role as chairman of London's Skills and Employment Board - to push for action on improving London's relatively low employment rate?

Challenge 2: affordable housing

Beyond shared ownership schemes and closer working with the boroughs, what more will Boris do to improve housing options for all Londoners - including private-rented housing for London's younger workforce?

Challenge 3: keeping London moving

Boris has promised to review the congestion charge Western Extension, and to scrap higher charges for 4x4s. But will he consider more radical moves to tackle congestion in the capital - such as a more flexible and variable congestion charge? And how will his administration promote better public transport across Outer London, to link people to jobs in places like Croydon, Brent Cross, or Heathrow?

Challenge 4: an accountable administration

Boris has promised a more collegial, transparent and consultative style of government in London - let's hold him to that. Given that the Tories now hold the Mayoralty and the biggest number of seats on the London Assembly, would now be a good time for Boris to propose stronger scrutiny of the mayor's office by the Assembly and London's councils?

The next four years hold a number of challenges for London - from breaking ground on Crossrail to delivering the Olympics. These big projects, together with the four challenges above, will determine Boris's legacy for London.