Roger's jolly at result

REDBRIDGE'S GLA member Roger Evans is closing in on the chance of becoming the Conservatives' official candidate for the post of London Mayor

The Greater London Authority (GLA) member for Redbridge and Havering was selected along with fellow party member Steve Norris following an interview last week.

The duo successfully survived a barrage of questions at a party gathering held in Westminster last week which was attended by around 700 members.

They were chosen from a shortlist of seven candidates which included Croydon South MP Richard Ottaway.

A delighted Mr Evans said: "I am extremely happy to have been able to come this far. Hopefully, I will be able to take the final step.

"The achievement becomes all the more significant after you see the high calibre of people I was up against."

All seven candidates were also asked to outline their policies if they were elected mayor in summer 2004.

The result of a postal ballot of all the £30,000 members in early February will decide the fate of the two remaining candidates, with the outcome of the vote being made public on Sunday, February 16.

"I know there is a final hurdle to be crossed yet, but I am really looking forward to it. I am confident I can make a difference, if given the chance," the 38-year-old said.

Very clear about what his targets would be if he was elected Mayor of London, Mr Evans said: "My main aim would be to take London and its people forward. Congestion charges, which I think are an appalling concept, would definitely be scrapped if I am chosen.

"I would also aim for increased police presence on the roads in outer London. Another priority would be to procure a no-strike agreement with Tube drivers to save people from undue closures."

15:16 Thursday 23rd January 2003

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