BORIS Johnson has presented Ministers with a list of measures to help London survive the economic downturn.

It follows warnings from local government leaders that the capital could lose 370,000 jobs over the next two years as a result of the recession.

The proposals were drawn up by a panel chaired by the mayor and Tony McNulty, the Government's Minister for London, which includes business and union representatives.

Recommendations included bringing back empty property rate relief, to help commercial property owners.

The relief was abolished by the Government in an attempt to stop businesses sitting on empty commercial buildings with the aim of selling them on later.

But in the current economic climate, some firms have found themselves stuck with buildings they are unable to sell - and forced to pay land tax, which they struggle to afford.

Mr Johnson said he had received assurances from Ministers that they were prepared to examine bringing back rate relief for empty commercial properties.

Other measures proposed by the panel include:

Agreeing that London's Crossrail scheme will start as soon as possible, and carrying out tube upgrades.

Making it easier for small businesses to bid for contracts with Government departments and the NHS.

Giving London control of local "welfare to work" programmes, designed to help people on benefits get back into the job market, so they can be tailored to London's specific needs.

Cutting tax on foreign profits to ensure London remains a globally competitive place for multinationals to base their headquarters.

Avoid punitive financial regulation, which would threaten London's position as a global financial centre.

Mr Johnson said: "I am determined to do everything in my power and will work with whoever it takes to help London cope with these difficult economic times.

"Later this week I will outline how we will invest £5 billion over the next three years to deliver 50,000 affordable homes which will boost the London housing market.

"However there are also many areas I cannot influence so I am pleased that today's meeting gives me the opportunity to remind central government how it can help and how crucial it is that we work together and rise to the challenges facing the economy in which the capital plays such a major role".

The warning that London could face a massive loss of jobs was issued in a separate report by the Local Government Association.

Related links: Mayor of London, Local Government Association report.

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