…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
Andrew Boff, a prominent critic of Boris Johnson, has announced his sixth attempt to become the Tory mayoral candidate in London.
He has garnered significant support from grassroots activists, securing endorsements from 50 councillors across 15 boroughs.
Boff, who currently serves as the chairman of the London Assembly, has been an assembly member since 2008 and has been vocal in calling for accountability in the partygate scandal.
With his backing from Tory councillors, he is considered a frontrunner in the race for the party’s mayoral nomination.
Grassroots Support for Boff:
Andrew Boff has gained substantial support from Tory councillors, which puts him in a favorable position among the candidates vying for the party’s mayoral candidacy.
Other contenders include Susan Hall and Nick Rogers, both assembly members, and Samuel Kasumu, a Hertfordshire councillor who has selected Keith Prince as his running mate.
Boff’s long-standing experience in City Hall and his reputation as a critic of the current government have helped him secure this level of grassroots backing.
Policy Focus and Objectives:
Boff’s campaign promises include scrapping the planned expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (UIez) beyond the Greater London boundary, prioritizing local policing, and increasing the construction of family homes.
He aims to address Londoners’ concerns about safety on the streets and the challenges of affordable housing.
Boff’s policy focus resonates with those who believe that the current mayor, Sadiq Khan, has failed to fulfill his promises and has lost the trust of Londoners.
Persistent Pursuit of Candidacy:
Despite failing to secure the Tory mayoral nomination in previous elections (2000, 2004, 2008, 2016, and 2021), Boff remains undeterred and optimistic about his chances this time.
He believes that persistence is a valuable quality rather than a reason for punishment.
Boff’s determination to secure his party’s nomination reflects his commitment to representing Conservative values and his belief in the potential for the party to achieve significant success in London.
Background and Personal History:
Andrew Boff’s upbringing in a council house in Hillingdon, as the son of a police officer and an NHS worker, has shaped his perspective and political aspirations.
He has experience as a council leader and has led the City Hall Conservatives.
Boff’s journey, from attending a state school to establishing his own business after working various jobs, demonstrates his resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.
He aims to bring together all levels of the Conservative Party in his campaign and rebuild trust with Londoners.
Conclusion:
Andrew Boff’s bid for the Tory mayoral candidacy in London is bolstered by substantial support from grassroots activists and Tory councillors.
As a longstanding critic of Boris Johnson, he presents himself as an alternative to Sadiq Khan, emphasizing the need for stronger crime reduction measures and increased housing opportunities.
Boff’s persistence in pursuing the mayoral nomination reflects his commitment to the Conservative Party’s principles and his belief in its potential for success in the upcoming elections.
The outcome of the candidate selection process will be decided by London Tory party members, with the winner announced on July 19, ahead of the mayoral elections on May 2 next year.