Mayor of London, Boris Johnson

Mayor Boris Johnson addressed the conference hall for a lively, informative and entertaining speech on his future plans for London.

Noting that many members of the audience were attending in response to the 'Be a Councillor' campaign, Mayor Johnson said it was an encouraging sign that people were interested in their communities and, given the tools and information, would get involved.

After summarising some of his main achievements since his election win, Mayor Johnson outlined his priorities for improving Londoners' lives, including: an upgraded transport system; delivering affordable housing and improving safety in the city.

Mayor Johnson touched on the topical issue of knife crime and called for a co-ordinated response between councils and their partners, such as the police, to tackle this "pointless, squalid and moronic" scourge which was damaging London's reputation.

The Mayor put forward an idea to work with London restaurants and businesses to allow Freedom Pass holders use of their toilet facilities.

Delegates then had the opportunity to question the Mayor, with a wide range of topics being put to Mayor Johnson ranging from the low emission zone, free travel for young people, chewing gum on the streets and funding for affordable housing.