Johnson's crime talks with US mayor

May 9 2008

Boris Johnson, London's new Mayor, is meeting the Mayor of New York to discuss the challenges of running a world class city.

Mr Johnson will welcome Michael Bloomberg to City Hall, where they will speak briefly to the media before embarking on their scheduled talks.

They are expected to focus on crime and discuss how London can learn lessons from strategies adopted in New York for tackling law and order issues.

Mr Bloomberg was credited with cutting crime in New York by 20% during his initial term in office.

Mr Johnson has already pledged to reduce crime levels in the capital and cut youth violence.

During his campaign he promised to recruit 440 new police community support officers to patrol the Tube and train network funded by cuts in the Transport for London publicity budget.

He also aims to introduce airport-style hand-held scanners and knife arches at rail stations.

Earlier this week he announced an alcohol ban on public transport in London to improve safety and curb anti-social behaviour.

The two men are also expected to discuss transport, skills and working in partnership.