Boris Johnson doesn't have a clue how to address the concerns of young people

Ed Balls MP, Labour's Childrens, Schools and Families Secretary, speaking on a campaign visit to the Hollington Club for Young People in Camberwell with Ken Livingstone to highlight the major boost in youth provision across the capital, said:

"Having worked on lots of projects with Ken in recent years I know that he has a real commitment to this great city. He's always pushing to get the best deal for people in London and his record shows that he's delivered.

"Ken's 'New Deal for Young Londoners' is just the latest example of how Ken will fight for a better deal for young people in this city. He's worked with me to get a big funding boost for youth services in the capital so there are more things to do and places to go for young people after school and at weekends.

"Ken is passionate about this work because it will give young people a positive alternative to crime, gangs and anti-social behaviour. But Boris Johnson doesn't have a clue how to tackle these issues and address the concerns of young people in the capital. He has a long track record of opposing key measures to tackle the crime that is affecting young people in London, including voting against automatic five-year sentences for people caught illegally carrying guns.

"When you contrast Ken's policies in every area with those of the Oxfordshire MP who has never shown any commitment to London or putting Londoners first, it is clear why every Londoner should vote for London by voting for Ken."

Boris Johnson voted against automatic five-year sentences for people caught illegally carrying guns - (Source: Criminal Justice Act 2003, Hansard: Commons Division Number 211).