13/11/2007

Paddick Is Lib Dem Mayor Candidate

Former Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner Brian Paddick has been named as the Liberal Democrat's candidate for London Mayor.

Mr Paddick - an openly gay police officer - was selected after winning a ballot of the party's London members. The 49-year-old beat competition from barrister Chamali Fernando and former party president and Haringey councillor Fiyaz Mughal in the vote.

Mr Paddick resigned from the Met earlier this year. Prior to his resignation, he had been Britain's highest-ranking gay cop.

Commenting on the ballot result, Mr Paddick said: "I am enormously proud to be announced today as the Liberal Democrat candidate for London Mayor.

"For too long Londoners have been denied a serious debate on the future of their city.

"Less crime, better transport, cleaner air and fewer Londoners living in poverty are all crucial in making sure that London remains one of the most exciting cities in the world.

"I strongly believe that the position of mayor can be a powerful source for good. During the coming months I will be explaining to people throughout London why the time has come for a change."

Vince Cable, acting leader of the Liberal Democrats, said: "I am delighted that the Liberal Democrats are able to put forward such an excellent candidate.

"Brian is a lifelong Londoner with the high-level experience needed to be London Mayor.

"London is one of the greatest cities in the world and, in Brian Paddick, Londoners finally have the serious candidate they deserve."

Mr Paddick will stand against the current mayor, Labour's Ken Livingstone and the Conservative candidate Boris Johnson, in next year's contest.

(KMcA)


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