News / Bristol Mayoral Elections 2021
Independent John Langley confirms he will run for Bristol mayor again
An independent candidate who has worn many hats – political and otherwise – has confirmed he will be standing in the 2021 Bristol mayoral election.
John Langley says he will prioritise mental health support and repurpose vacant office space to create social housing if he wins at the polls on May 6.
The independent runner, also known as porn star Johnny Rockard, is no stranger to the political scene in the city and stood in the 2016 mayoral election, which was won by Labour’s incumbent mayor Marvin Rees.
is needed now More than ever
Once a Lib Dem, Langley went on to become the vice-chairman of Bristol UKIP before being suspended from the party for an adult film made in Castle Park. He has always been open about his professional background and has stood as a Bristol City Council candidate and MP in previous years.
John Langley says he will prioritise mental health support – photo courtesy of John Langley
Confirming his candidacy in the 2021 mayoral race, Langley said: “Following Covid, Bristol needs to rebuild its community. This means more support where possible for independent retailers and other small independent businesses. With so many empty retail premises we need to encourage new start-up opportunities and look at the ways and means to offer financial support with business rates to get our high streets thriving again while creating more employment opportunities.
“Priority must be given to mental health services support as well as other community initiatives which empower those who need support the most to live healthier, happier, and more productive lives post-lockdown.
“With so many employees now working from home and so much newly built vacant office space, we need to discuss with employers and developers opportunities to repurpose available space for much-needed social housing.”
Langley will stand against incumbent Rees, Green candidate Sandy Hore-Ruthven, Lib Dem Dr Caroline Gooch – who wants to scrap the role entirely – and Tory Alastair Watson.
Bristol24/7 is hosting a virtual hustings in collaboration with the Watershed on Thursday, April 29, from 7pm, where readers will have the opportunity to pose questions to candidates.
Follow b247.staging.proword.press and social media channels for coverage in the build-up to the elections on May 6.
Read more: Alastair Watson is new Tory mayoral candidate
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