The Mayor of London Mr Ken Livingstone stepped on to the campaign trail today in support of Labour candidates despite remaining expelled from the party.
'Red Ken' is canvassing in six marginal seats being fought by friends, some of whom have helped behind the scenes to back discussions between Transport Commissioner Mr Bob Kiley and the Government over the London Underground.
"The mayoral election was very damaging for the Labour Party," said Mr Livingstone, who was expelled from the party after standing as an independent against official Labour candidate Frank Dobson.
"It was a bruising experience and what I'm saying is that I want to work with the Labour Government.
"They will put more into the police and transport system. I know I will be able to get more out of them for London than with any Tory government who would want tax cuts."
Labour headquarters made no objection to Mr Livingstone's appearance, raising speculation that the thaw in their relationship could see him regain party membership.
Mr Livingstone said: "I would be asking people to vote for Andrew even if I knew that I would never be back in the Labour Party in my life.
He said he saw no problem with supporting Labour candidates despite being a strong opponent of the Government's plans to part privatise the London Underground.
PA