Major backs Archer as mayor
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.JEFFREY ARCHER claimed heavyweight backing for his campaign to become mayor of London last night after winning the support of John Major and Henry Cooper, the former boxer.
They joined Gillian Shephard, the former education secretary, to provide the three character references required for the Conservative Party's selection process. In September, the party's London members will choose their mayoral candidate for next May's election.
Tory officials denied that Mr Major's endorsement signalled that William Hague would support Lord Archer of Weston-super-Mare, who faces a challenge from Steve Norris, a former transport minister.
Lord Archer and Mrs Shephard were both members of the so-called "East Anglian mafia" who lived near Mr Major's Huntingdon constituency and became close allies - although Mr Major dashed Lord Archer's hopes of a ministerial post. The millionaire novelist met Cooper through his sport and charity links.
The Archer bandwagon received another push when Edward Lister, leader of Wandsworth Council for the past seven years, agreed to be his running mate for the deputy's position.
Lord Archer said he was "delighted that one of the most respected council leaders in Britain has agreed to stand as my deputy".
But Trevor Phillips, the television presenter who hopes to become Labour's candidate for Mayor, seized on Mr Lister's policies in Wandsworth, where he was criticised by police after seeking to recruit householders to patrol the streets as unofficial crimefighters.
"Now we know the truth - Jeffrey Archer is simply the front man for the hard-faced ideologues of the hard right," said Mr Phillips.
Meanwhile, Richard Branson, the Virgin boss, said from Shanghai that he was considering standing for mayor.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments