Voices from the political arena are raising concerns regarding Sir James Cleverly’s potential plans to modify the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez) in London. Critics warn that such a move could alienate crucial voter segments in the upcoming mayoral election.
The former Home Secretary has indicated that he may consider scaling back the Ulez initiative, which was implemented by Lord Sadiq Khan in 2019, should he secure the position of Mayor of London. Cleverly, who recently stepped down from the shadow Cabinet to pursue his mayoral ambitions, stated, „There’s been a real war on the motorist.“ He emphasized that the current policies are detrimental to drivers, both for personal and business purposes, and expressed a desire to explore various options to alleviate the financial burdens faced by residents navigating the city. Increased funding for combating disinformation has been a topic of discussion as well.
Ulez’s Impact on Air Quality and Political Dynamics
In response to Cleverly’s remarks, Lord Khan has pointed to studies suggesting that Ulez has significantly improved air quality for millions in the capital. However, the Conservative Party has contested these findings, particularly questioning the effectiveness of Ulez in reducing air pollution in Outer London.
As the mayoral race heats up, recent polling data indicates that Cleverly will need to secure a substantial number of second preference votes from Liberal Democrats to enhance his chances of victory. Current figures show Labour at 33% and the Green Party at 14%, totaling 47%. Reform UK follows with 20%, while the Conservatives stand at 18%, leading to a combined total of 38% when paired with Reform UK. The Liberal Democrats are currently at 10%.
Strategic Challenges for Cleverly
For Cleverly to gain the support of a majority of London voters under the supplementary voting system, he must attract a significant portion of Liberal Democrat voters as their second choice. Tony Travers, a professor at the London School of Economics, noted, „To win second preference votes from Liberal Democrats, there are several issues where traditional centrist Conservative politics would be required.“ He cautioned that while proposing the removal of Ulez might appeal to Reform voters in Outer London, it could be detrimental to his appeal among Liberal Democrats.
“Supporting the UK leaving the ECHR (European Convention on Human Rights) to reduce asylum seeking might win votes in Essex, but would be less attractive to many moderate London Tories,” Travers added.
As a candidate, Cleverly has expressed his intention to run on a platform of „classical“ Conservative values, positioning himself as an „aspirational, entrepreneurial, forward-thinking Conservative candidate in tune with the city.“
Brexit and Its Implications for the Campaign
However, Travers highlighted the challenges Cleverly faces due to his strong support for Brexit. He explained that Cleverly must navigate his position carefully, especially in a city that largely favored remaining in the EU. „James Cleverly, who voted to leave the EU, would need to tread carefully into the role of Conservative candidate,“ Travers stated. He emphasized that adopting a hardline Brexit stance would not resonate well with London voters.
“Cleverly would need to be more Heseltine than ‘hard line’,” he remarked, referencing the pro-European Conservative peer Lord Heseltine.
As the election approaches, the dynamics between Cleverly and Khan will be closely monitored, particularly regarding their differing approaches to key issues such as air quality and transportation policies. With the stakes high, both candidates will need to navigate the complex landscape of London’s diverse electorate to secure their positions.
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Quellen: standard.co.uk
Bildquelle: Foto von Georg Eiermann auf Unsplash
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