The Conservative Party may improve its prospects in the 2028 London mayoral election by choosing a candidate without previous ties to Westminster politics or the prior Conservative government, according to recent polling data. The survey indicates that contenders with backgrounds in business and policing could resonate more effectively with London voters.

Currently, the selection process for a Tory challenger to the incumbent mayor, Labour’s Sir Sadiq Khan, has yet to commence. Reports have highlighted potential candidates, including Shadow Cabinet Minister Sir James Cleverly and former Member of Parliament and Olympic gold medallist Lord Sebastian Coe, as possible entrants in the race.

The polling was commissioned by an exploratory campaign linked to Festus Akinbusoye, a Conservative councillor representing Westminster City. A spokesperson for Akinbusoye’s exploratory mayoral bid emphasized that while the path to securing a Conservative win in London remains challenging, it remains attainable with the right candidate profile. They highlighted that the party should seek a fresh face with a blend of business acumen and policing experience, coupled with the capacity to appeal broadly across the political spectrum.

The poll’s findings suggest some fluidity among voters: approximately 29% of those likely to support the Reform Party indicated they would contemplate voting Conservative, while 20% of Labour supporters expressed openness to switching allegiance to the Tories. These figures underline the potential for the Conservative Party to expand its voter base with a carefully selected candidate who can attract cross-party support in the capital.