There are five new members of the London Assembly this term so we thought we’d find out a bit more about them. The only one not part of the Labour group is Stephen Knight, one of two Londonwide ('top up') Liberal Democrat members.
What did you do before becoming an Assembly Member?
I’ve been a full-time councillor for the past four years in Richmond upon Thames where I continue to lead the opposition on the council. Before that I combined being a councillor with work at London Councils. I have also served in a number of national local government roles with the Local Government Association, particularly focusing on workforce issues. Much of the past 18 months has also been focused on being a Dad to our new baby daughter.
Why did you stand for the London Assembly?
I stood unsuccessfully last time as a constituency candidate and have long been an advocate of strong regional government in London. More than a decade ago I advised the Lib Dems in Parliament on the original 1999 Greater London Authority Bill – drafting amendments for debate. A large world city like ours can only function properly with comprehensive system of infrastructure and public services.
What are your areas of political interest?
I’m leading for our group on economic, environmental and health issues as well as serving on the fire authority. I have a strong interest in social justice and tackling the growing inequality in our society.
What do you hope to have achieved by the end of four years?
I hope to have made a positive contribution to the debate on how we make London a fairer, less polluted city with fewer Londoners living with unemployment and poverty.
What's your favourite bit of London?
Probably the Thames which changes in nature as it runs through our city from Hampton and Teddington down to the estuary. The royal parks also make a huge contribution to our city. The Bankside area from Waterloo right along the riverbank to City Hall has so much culture and energy to offer.
You can follow Stephen on Twitter: @StephenKnight1
