Boris Johnson has said the Tories’ shock victory in his former Greater London seat is proof the Conservatives can win in London “and around the country”.
Steve Tuckwell clung on to the seat despite Labour needing a mere 7 point swing to take it.
Labour will now come under renewed pressure to force Sadiq Khan not to expand the Ultra Low Emission Zone, after they lost despite ordering the London Mayor not to visit the constituency during the election campaign.
Mr Johnson added it was “fantastic news”.
“Well done Steve Tuckwell and the amazing Conservative council and association members.
“This shows the Conservatives can win in London and around the country.”
Mr Johnson stood down from the seat ahead of a report from the ‘kangaroo court’ Privileges Committee, which was set to suspend him from the Commons for 90 days after allegedly lying to the House over parties in No. 10.
