As Ken Livingstone talks war, Oona King goes missing in action

Published: 09 September, 2010
by RICHARD OSLEY

KEN Livingstone firmed up his support among Labour Party members with a spirited performance at Mayoral candidate hustings on Friday night.

The former Camden councillor, however, had an easier ride than expected after his rival for the Labour candidacy at the 2012 London elections, Oona King, pulled out to talk at an event with journalist Polly Toynbee instead.

In her absence, Ms King sent former NUS president Wes Streeting, one of her campaign team, to deputise.

Mr Livingstone warned that Ms King’s support for the Iraq War remained a sore point. He said: “I don’t think you can win in London with a pro-war candidate.” 

Mr Streeting said that voters in 2012 would not have the invasion at the front of their minds. Mr Livingstone also struck out at government policies – both Labour and Conservative – that had prevented Camden’s council homes from being upgraded.

The hustings, held inside the Town Hall main chamber, were meant to be a showcase event at which both Mayoral candidates and all five Labour party leadership contenders were due to appear. But only Diane Abbott made the final panel. David Miliband sent Lord Falconer to speak on his behalf. Mark Seddon spoke for Ed Miliband.