London mayoral election 2016: Zac Goldsmith promises to create half a million new jobs in the next four years
Conservative London mayoral candidate Zac Goldsmith has attempted to woo Londoners today by promises to create half a million new jobs in the capital over the next four years.
Speaking at a manifesto launch this morning, Goldsmith said that he would invest in infrastructure and keep the economy strong, thereby creating jobs.
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"I’m determined that all Londoners should enjoy our city’s success which is why I will freeze mayoral council tax and create jobs," said Goldsmith.
"Under Boris we have recovered from Labour’s great recession, and my action plan for Greater London will build on that success and secure half a million more jobs for Londoners.
"You can only deal with transport congestion, build houses and improve London if you keep the economy strong. That’s why the Khan-Corbyn experiment, with the promise of council tax hikes and a £1.9bn black hole, would be so damaging for London."
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Specifically, the goal to build 50,000 homes a year would create 195,000 new jobs. And by investing in the Night Tube and Crossrail 2, a further 286,000 jobs could be created. Some 20,000 would be made from policies to expand tech hubs and broadband.
Current London mayor Boris Johnson joined Goldsmith on the campaign trail, where he warned against voting in Labour's Sadiq Khan.
The speech by Goldsmith comes before City PM's head-to-head debate with Khan this evening.