What can London’s micro business owners expect from new mayor Sadiq Khan?

Following the election of Labour mayoral candidate Sadiq Khan on 7 May, Business Advice looked at the implications for small firm leaders.

Much of the new mayor’s a 17bnbudget is likely to be spent on affordable housing which could help small firm owners in the capital recruit staff who cannot currently afford to live in the city.

But Khan’s manifesto pledges also included a commitment to working with local authorities to stop the excessive conversion of commercial spaces into residential properties. He also promised to champion independent retailers and support communities working to maintain the feel of their high streets.

Since his victory, Khan has redoubled his commitment to small business owners and entrepreneurs. Writing in The Guardian on 7 May, he said: Whether it’s aspiring to work as a nurse in a hospital, or setting up and running your own business, Labour should be about ensuring fairness, so that everyone has the same chance in life to reach their goals.

In the days since the election, the mayor has also been seen to distance himself from Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who was not present at Khan’s inauguration ceremony at Southwark Cathedral on 8 May.

‘so-called natural Labour voters alone will never be enough to win a general election, Khan continued in his Guardian article, which has been seen as a thinly disguised attack on his party leader.

we must be able to persuade people who previously voted Conservative that Labour can be trusted with the economy and security, as well as improving public services and creating a fairer society.