Jeremy Paxman urged to run for London mayor
The idea has been greeted enthusiastically by Conservative MPs
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Jeremy Paxman has been asked to stand as the Conservative candidate for London mayor by a senior figure in the party, according to a report.
The former BBC Newsnight anchor, who has described himself as a “one-nation Tory”, played down suggestions he might stand.
However The Times newspaper said he had not ruled out the idea and added it was being greeted enthusiastically by Conservative MPs.
One told the paper: “You can see how it’s an enticing prospect: him versus Sadiq Khan [tipped by some to be Labour’s candidate].
“One of who has spent their entire life beating up politicians versus someone installed by the trade unions.”
However Mr Paxman said “I shouldn’t bother, if I were you” when asked by The Times if he would encourage speculation about a possible political career.
In June, he told an audience at the Chalke Valley History Festival, where he was discussing his book, Britain’s Great War: “I have to be frank, I suppose I am a one-nation Tory, yes.”
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments