A Green Party politician aims to "enhance transparency" within the London Assembly after being elected today as its chair for the coming year.

Darren Johnson AM, who is also a Lewisham councillor, promised to head  meetings in City Hall in a way that will allow “rigorous cross examination” of the Conservative Mayor of London, Boris Johnson.

Conservative Roger Evans, London Assembly member for Havering and Redbridge, was elected as deputy chair and said all 13 members share the same aim of making London "the greatest city on earth".

Reacting to today’s news, Cllr Johnson said: “I will seek to chair assembly meetings in a way that allows rigorous cross examination of the Mayor, allows the mayor the opportunity to answer questions succinctly, and enhances transparency and accountability.

“Above all, while I am happy to facilitate rigorous democratic debate, I will also remember that the real strength of the Assembly is when we speak truth to power, united with one voice on behalf of Londoners.”