The Labour Leader on the Greater London Assembly Len Duvall criticised Mr Johnson for not meeting with any of trade unions since his election in 2008, saying: "Boris’ latest dinner with Rupert Murdoch is further proof that he’s more interested in promoting himself than promoting the interests and well being of Londoners. Instead of creating division and calling for harsh new trade union laws, Boris should be seeking to bring people together and resolve differences in an open manner. Since he was elected in 2008 he hasn’t met with any of the trade unions who represent working people across our city. However, he can find the time to have regular dinners with Mr Murdoch. Instead of bringing people together he is trying to create more conflict to appeal to his next electorate."
Mr Duvall also criticised Mr Johnson's close relationship with News International: "His own relationship with News International and Rupert Murdoch has been far too close. When the phone-hacking scandal first broke, Boris described it as “codswallop” and played down the importance of alleged serial criminal activity. This latest meeting is all part of his plan to get the Murdoch press on his side before he launches his leadership bid. Rather than position himself for his next job, Boris should be focussing on the issues that matter to Londoners, like protecting frontline emergency services from his cuts and building affordable homes. Nearly a year into his new administration he is easing up on his job and getting ready to leave City Hall."
Mr Duvall also criticised Mr Johnson's close relationship with News International: "His own relationship with News International and Rupert Murdoch has been far too close. When the phone-hacking scandal first broke, Boris described it as “codswallop” and played down the importance of alleged serial criminal activity. This latest meeting is all part of his plan to get the Murdoch press on his side before he launches his leadership bid. Rather than position himself for his next job, Boris should be focussing on the issues that matter to Londoners, like protecting frontline emergency services from his cuts and building affordable homes. Nearly a year into his new administration he is easing up on his job and getting ready to leave City Hall."
