The history behind London's top job

Given how high-profile the job of London mayor is, you could be forgiven for thinking it's a role rooted in history - but in fact it's something that's only been around since the turn of the century.

In 1998, Londoners voted in a referendum as to whether they wanted an elected mayor and assembly - and despite a low voter turnout, the result was a resounding yes.

At the time, the Mayor of London was the most powerful political role outside of Westminster.

BBC London's political correspondent Karl Mercer takes a look back at the history behind London's top job.

Video produced by Paul Murphy-Kasp

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4 May 2024