Paddick named Lib Dem mayoral candidate
Tuesday, 13 November 2007 12:00 AM
The Liberal Democrats have named Brian Paddick as their candidate for the London mayoral election.
The former deputy assistant commissioner of the Metropolitan police will fight against Ken Livingstone and Boris Johnson in the race to become mayor of London in May.
Mr Paddick said he was "enormously proud" to be announced as the Liberal Democrat candidate at a special meeting last night.
Accepting the nomination, he said: "For too long Londoners have been denied a serious debate on the future of their city.
"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."
Setting out his agenda for the campaign, Mr Paddick said: "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."
Acting leader of the Liberal Democrats Vince Cable said he was "delighted" the party had put forward "such an excellent candidate".
Mr Cable said: "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 has enjoyed a high-profile role in the media but the 49-year-old does not yet equal the public profile of his Conservative rival Boris Johnson and current mayor Ken Livingstone.
As police commander for the London borough of Lambeth, Mr Paddick incurred controversy for ordering his officers not to arrest cannabis users, arguing this would free them up to tackle hard drug abuse in the borough.
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