Livingstone attacked over racism claim

Ken Livingstone, the mayor of London, was criticised yesterday for describing corruption allegations over missing grants worth many thousands of pounds as a "racist smear campaign".

The row centres on the Mayor's race adviser, Lee Jasper, and alleged financial irregularities at City Hall.

Boris Johnson, his Conservative rival, and Brian Paddick, the Liberal Democrat also seeking to unseat him as mayor, both accused Mr Livingstone of creating a "smokescreen" as he fights for his political life ahead of polling day in May.

Mr Livingstone made his racism claim as he was questioned by London assembly members over his defence of Mr Jasper.

The adviser is under pressure amid claims that ethnic minority community projects apparently linked to him received 12 grants totalling as much as £3.5 million.

An internal inquiry cleared Mr Jasper of wrongdoing last month, but members of the assembly have called for an independent investigation.

At the meeting Mr Livingstone mounted a staunch defence of his friend and adviser, saying: "This has been a racist smear campaign against Lee Jasper...and I fear this is going to be a divisive, racist campaign."

His rivals expressed their disgust at the Mayor for playing the race card.

Mr Johnson said: "This old-school, 1980s divisive style of politics shows how out of touch Ken has become.

"His responses to questions are ridiculous."

Mr Paddick said: "I am the last person who Lee Jasper or Ken Livingstone could call a racist. He is trying to use allegations of racism as a smokescreen."