The new Mayor of London has made a remarkable pledge:-
“I will consult the residents in the (Congestion Charge) zone and on the border on whether we should keep the Western extension, and whatever the result I will abide by it”.

On the surface, here is a clear, unambiguous commitment, no doubt welcomed by all those who criticise politicians for ducking and weaving on tricky issues where opinion is divided. Indeed, it is possible that Boris is catching the mood of the moment by letting people determine more things for themselves; we’re not consulted about the winner in Strictly Come Dancing or The “X” Factor; we vote. And are not initiatives like Hazel Blears’ Community Kitties a recognition that people participate if they think they can directly influence the result.