Brian Paddick proposes £1 hotel levy to fund London youth clubs

Brian Paddick, the Lib Dem candidate for the post of Mayor of London, has proposed a scheme to fund youth clubs across the capital through a voluntary £1 levy on the 50,000 three- to five-star hotel rooms in London.

The scheme, devised by the former policeman, would also be funded by banks, according to The Metro.

Paddick pointed to the success of the Pedro Youth Club in Hackney, which offers classes ranging from martial arts to fashion.

"We want to give young people a positive alternative to gangs. Clubs like Pedro are essential to in keeping youngsters off the streets and giving them something practical to do. I want to see more clubs like this across the city," Paddick said.

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By Neil Gerrard

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