Now 105 London bosses back Boris Johnson

A total of 105 business leaders today backed Boris Johnson for Mayor in a joint letter.

They include restaurateur and businessman Sir David Tang, top fashion designer Anya Hindmarch and celebrity hairdresser John Frieda.

The letter says: “London’s economy is the foundation of the UK economy. Last week we heard that the whole country is still struggling to grow. This makes the mayoral election even more important.

"We need a Mayor who will defend the London economy against all comers. We need a Mayor with plans to get the economy moving. We need a Mayor with the courage to tell the truth about tax and investment.”

The signatories also include Carphone Warehouse founder David Ross, lyricist Sir Tim Rice and businessman Harold Tillman, who is also chairman of the British Fashion Council.

The letter adds: “It is clear to us that it is only through investment in London’s housing and transport infrastructure, and through operating with a clear plan to keep the costs of running London government low by managing taxes carefully and attracting business, that we can hope to get our capital and country out of the current economic situation.

“We are signing this letter in our personal capacities to recommend London gives Boris Johnson a second term.”