Andrew Boff launches seventh bid for London Mayor

Andrew Boff, a veteran member of the London Assembly, has declared his intention to seek the Conservative Party's nomination for the 2028 London mayoral election. This marks his seventh bid to become Mayor of London, having previously contested the candidacy in every election cycle since 2000, excluding 2012.

Mr Boff announced his interest in the 2028 race on the same day that Sir Sadiq Khan secured his third term as Mayor. He stated his long-held principles for London informed his decision to put his name forward. Mr Boff told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that he believes he can win the election if selected by the party, asserting his deep understanding of London's diverse areas.

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Policy Positions

Mr Boff has outlined several policy positions that differentiate him from national party lines. He opposes the expansion of Heathrow Airport, stating that current plans are "unambitious" and will not deliver "real growth." This stance contrasts with recent comments from Shadow Chancellor Andrew Griffith supporting airport expansion.

His proposals for housing include altering the grant structure to encourage the building of more family-sized homes. Furthermore, he advocates for reforming the London Plan to promote lower-density developments rather than high-rise tower blocks. Mr Boff suggested these changes would give boroughs more control and reduce costs for London taxpayers.

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Campaign Approach

Known for challenging his own party, Mr Boff was nominated for chair of the London Assembly for a third time in May. He was described by outgoing chair Lord Len Duvall as someone who "thinks out of the box and challenges his own group." City Hall Conservatives group leader Susan Hall noted that the assembly was "very lucky" to have him.

Mr Boff indicated his campaign would focus on appealing to a broader range of voters beyond traditional Conservative supporters, including those from Reform and Labour who share certain instincts. He believes Londoners are becoming tired of the current administration after a decade in office and need a mayor who speaks for the city, not just a political party.

Selection Process

Mr Boff is among several declared Conservative candidates for the mayoral nomination. Other candidates include former Home Secretary James Cleverly, Westminster City Councillor Festus Akinbusoye, and businessman Alex Challoner. The Conservative Party has not yet confirmed the full list of candidates. Following confirmation, a selection panel will narrow down the field to two finalists. The party expects to hold hustings and a member vote to decide the final candidate before the end of the year.