Boris off to a slow start
boriswatch Mon Nov 12, 2007 at 07:17:13 PM GMT 
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Grassroots Tories are increasingly wondering if they have selected the right man to stand for London Mayor.
After he was selected, Boris told the world that he would take a period of purdah. His reasoning was that he didn't want to talk about policies before the campaign itself.
Judging by his unforced errors on affordable housing (opposing the 50 per cent policy) and buses (backing the system that exists outside London – which has led to the decline of bus services) this was a wise move.
But anyone who saw Boris' performances on BBC London, ITV London, and the Today programme, could be forgiven for thinking that some basic media training may also be in order.
Increasingly, the lengthening period of Boris' "purdah" is starting to cause real angst for Tory high command.
ConservativeHome quotes a range of sources raising concerns about "worrying drift" in Boris' campaign and saying that he's been called in for a dressing down by George Osborne.
Johnson's silence on Ian Blair, his poor performances on London issues in Parliament, and the fact his slick website has not been updated have deepened the concern.
It is also causing unrest amongst the Tory grassroots.
ConservativeHome's stories on this have produced some scathing comments here and here.
The row has been going back and forward in the comments. One Tory argued for Boris being given more time as he's "only half informed", while others think "the game is already lost".
But Boris remains a dangerous opponent, not least given the consequences for London if he won.
The row has been going back and forward in the comments. One Tory argued for Boris being given more time as he's "only half informed", while others think "the game is already lost".
But Boris remains a dangerous opponent, not least given the consequences for London if he won.
Over the next few months, Labour activists will need to know what sort of a candidate is going up against Ken. As a few Labour members from around London, we'll be keeping an eye on Boris, and need your help.
If he's in your local paper let us know. If you have the misfortune of reading Tory blogs, forward us comments about Boris.
Every time Boris comes out with a "Piccaninnies" comment, we'll be there. Let's use LabourHome to put the real Boris out there for voters to see.
Email your tips, news and suggestions to boriswatch@live.co.uk.
Boris off to a slow start | 4 comments (4 topical)
Boris off to a slow start | 4 comments (4 topical)
