Former Epping Forest MP Steven Norris has been sacked from the board of the Transport for London.

London Mayor and Transport For London chairman Ken Livingstone said the decision had been taken because of Mr Norris's "gratuitous attacks on the board's transport policy".

Conservatives on the Greater London Authority have condemned the decision as "ludicrous".

Tory leader Bob Neill said: "This is proof that Livingstone cannot take criticism about his barmy transport plans. It's extremely bad news for Londoners. They have lost one of the few sane voices on the board that will shape transport in the capital.

"Such ludicrous decisions only go to show that Red Ken is still alive and well and intent on forcing his left-wing political dogma on Londoners."

Mr Neill added: "His sacking of Steve Norris is a ludicrous decision from a man who is clearly running scared of criticism."

November 30, 2001 16:00