Mayor of Paris comes out to support Ken
The Mayor of Paris, Bertrand Delanoë, joined Ken Livingstone on the campaign trail this weekend in support of his bid to be re-elected Mayor of London on May 1st.
The popular left wing Mayor, who is openly gay, conducted a walk-about and met with members of the city’s French community alongside Mr Livingstone.
Mr Delanoë, who was re-elected Mayor of in Paris last month, said in a press conference:
“The cities of the 21st century are cities of great diversity in their population.
“As with myself, Ken believes it is necessary to bring all people together and ensure we benefit from the richness of all their contributions.”
The event forms part of a determined effort by Livingstone’s campaign to highlight that London’s international status has grown during his tenure.
The visit will boost Mr Livingstone’s support from the capitals French voters.
It is estimated that over 300,000 French people live in London, all of whom are eligible to vote in the election on May 1st.
The incumbent Mayor has received backing this week from a number of high profile political figures.
Last week the Mayor of San Francisco, Gavin Newson said:
“London has a great leader in Ken Livingstone. His willingness to take brave, forward looking decisions – such as to tackle congestion – have provided hope and inspiration to city leaders around the world.
“It was Ken’s drive and leadership that made it possible for 40 of the world’s largest cities to come together to tackle climate change, something that would have been unthinkable otherwise.
“It has also been a pleasure to work with a fellow Mayor who puts into practice in his city the values of tolerance and celebrating diversity that I am so proud to represent in San Francisco.”
Paris became the world’s second largest city with an openly gay Mayor, after Berlin, following its election of Mr Delanoe.
He famously announced his sexuality in a television interview in 1998 before becoming Mayor.
Full list of candidates for Mayor of London:
Richard Barnbrook – British National Party
Gerard Batten – UK Independence Party
Sian Berry – Green Party
Alan Craig – Christian Peoples Alliance and Christian Party
Lindsey German – The Left List
Boris Johnson – Conservative Party
Ken Livingstone – Labour Party
Winston McKenzie – Independent
Matt O’Connor – English Democrats
Brian Paddick – Liberal Democrats
