Could Corbyn and ULEZ cost Sadiq Khan his job? Poll finds ex-Labour leader joining London Mayor battle could deliver victory for Tory Susan Hall by splitting left-wing support
Sadiq Khan could lose the London Mayor battle if Jeremy Corbyn runs as an independent, according to a shock poll today.
The incumbent – who has been struggling to contain a huge backlash at his ULEZ expansion – faces being defeated by Tory Susan Hall if the ex-Labour leader makes good on his threat to stand.
Redfield & Wilton Strategies research suggested that without Mr Corbyn’s involvement Mr Khan is on track for the narrowest of victories, with 33 per cent support to 32 per cent for Ms Hall.
However, with Mr Corbyn in the race he was estimated to lose by 30 per cent to 25 per cent, with the hard-left MP getting 15 per cent.
The findings will boost the spirits of Tories, who have been hoping that the row over the ultra-low emissions zone being expanded across the capital can turn their fortunes.
Anger at the widened £12.50-a-day charge was credited for the Conservatives unexpectedly hanging on in the Uxbridge & South Ruislip by-election.
Sadiq Khan could lose the London Mayor battle if Jeremy Corbyn runs as an independent, according to a shock poll today
Mr Corbyn has repeatedly refused to rule out a bid for the mayoralty after he was blocked by the Labour leadership from standing as the party’s candidate in his Islington North constituency
The London Mayor contest is being conducted under a first-past-the-post electoral system – the same used for Westminster – for the first time after the government passed new laws.
The contest will take place in May next year, likely to be a few months before the general election.
Previous surveys had indicated that Mr Khan had a significant lead over other parties, although the full slate of candidates had not been chosen.
Mr Corbyn has repeatedly refused to rule out a bid for the mayoralty after he was blocked by the Labour leadership from standing as the party’s candidate in his Islington North constituency.
Mr Khan has insisted he is relaxed about whom he faces, saying he is not surprised that people want to get the ‘best job in the world’.
The 74-year-old is still regarded as more likely to focus on defending that seat as an independent rather than turning his sights to City Hall.
The Tories declared Ms Hall would be their contender in July after a chaotic selection process that saw a minister left off the shortlist.
Many had feared that Ms Hall did not have the profile or charisma to stop Mr Khan winning a third term.
However, the Redfield poll suggests those concerns might be overplayed.
The incumbent – who has been struggling to contain a huge backlash at his ULEZ expansion – faces being defeated by Tory Susan Hall (pictured) if the ex-Labour leader makes good on his threat to stand
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