James Cleverly resigns from shadow cabinet to run for London mayor

James Cleverly has resigned from the Conservative shadow cabinet to launch a bid for the 2028 London mayoral election. The former Home and Foreign Secretary, who previously served as Shadow Housing Secretary, stated that his candidacy is intended to help the Conservative Party achieve success in the capital.

Cleverly has criticized current Mayor Sadiq Khan, describing his policies as a “war on the motorist” and a “vindictive assault on drivers.” He specifically targeted the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez), suggesting he would launch a review of the scheme to ease the financial pressure on motorists and businesses in London. While he did not pledge to scrap the program entirely, he expressed a desire to explore options to reduce the costs associated with navigating the city.

Cleverly, the MP for Braintree, noted that his resignation was met graciously by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch. He argued that London represents the “philosophical heart of the Conservative party” and rejected the notion that it is exclusively a Labour city.