Johnson unveils 3bn support package

Mayor of London Boris Johnson has unveiled a 3bn package of measures to help the capital weather the economic downturn. Plans include a major campaign to make businesses aware of available help and a 1m boost in tourism advertising.

Mayor of London Boris Johnson has unveiled a £3bn package of measures to help the capital weather the economic downturn. Plans include a major campaign to make businesses aware of available help and a £1m boost in tourism advertising.

Johnson revealed a detailed plan called the Mayor’s Economic Recovery Action Plan, which will be put in place by the Greater London Authority Group and its partners throughout 2009.

The plan involves launching new programmes, revamping existing ones and refocusing budgets to meet London’s needs in the economic climate.

A £23.4m support package for new businesses is to be backed by a major publicity campaign aimed at ensuring small and medium sized businesses, organisations and individuals are aware of the help that is available.

Also among the 60 measures is a promise of a £1m tourism campaign aimed at leisure and business visitors from the UK and overseas, together with a £300,000 export promotion programme intended to capitalise on the trade and export opportunities arising from the weak pound.