New Statesman endorse Tessa Jowell in London Mayor contest

The New Statesman has announced its support for Tessa Jowell in the contest to become Labour’s candidate for the Mayor of London. The magazine recently gave Yvette Cooper its backing in the leadership race.

In an editorial column, the NS praises the “strong” field in the race for the nomination, but concludes that Jowell stands out as the likeliest to defeat probably Conservative candidate Zac Goldsmith. They continue:

“But the case for Tessa Jowell extends far beyond her electability. She is a fine communicator who has been far less divisive than many of her contemporaries in the party. She has an excellent record in government, most notably in founding Sure Start, the national nurture and childhood programme, and in helping to bring the 2012 Olympic Games to London.”

The leader also says that Jowell has shown a willingness to prioritise housing, early years intervention and tackling inequality:

“Her campaign for mayor has shown she has the right priorities for the capital: addressing the housing crisis, concentrating on disadvantaged children’s early years, grappling with entrenched inequality, while being open-minded about business and commerce.”