All eyes on London as pundits predict Boris victory

By Tony Grew • May 2, 2008 - 11:49

5.5 million Londoners were eligible to vote yesterday

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Counting has begun in the London Mayoral election. A result is not expected until this evening, but London Tories are already claiming that their candidate Boris Johnson has won.

His victory is also being predicted by election experts and politics websites. The only know results in London, two council by-elections, showed a 4% boost for the Tories. Some are talking of a double-digit lead.

There was a high turnout in many of the capital city’s outer boroughs, where support for Mr Johnson was expected to be strong.

The 43-year-old, who is MP for Henley, has run a strong campaign, attempting to shake off his image as a joker and establish his credentials as a serious political force.

Labour’s candidate, Ken Livingstone, is seeking a third term in office. There were reports last night of a late surge in voting at inner London polling stations, which is thought to have boosted his vote.

Counting is ongoing at three London locations; Alexandra Palace in north London, the Excel Centre in Docklands and Olympia in the east of the city.

The final results will be announced at City Hall this evening. The turnout is estimated at 45%.

The 25-member London Assembly will also be elected today.

There is concern that the British National Party may win a seat on the Assembly. The fascist homophobic party need to win a minimum of 5% of the vote.

The Respect party candidate George Galloway is hopeful of winning a seat, while the Greens and UKIP are hopeful of representation, alongside Labour, the Conservatives and the Lib Dems.