Boris claims Routemaster affordable via bus-by-bus phase-in

Boris Johnson believes bringing back the Routemaster bus could be made cost-effective if London's bendy buses are phased out rather than replaced in one go.

The Conservative candidate for the mayor of London has come under pressure to explain how he would afford his plans to scrap London's distinctive bendy buses.

While touring Romford in the borough of Havering, Mr Johnson insisted Routemasters did not have to be any more expensive than bendy buses and could even prove cheaper on a bus by bus basis.

Last night's televised debate on BBC2's Newsnight programme between the main mayoral candidates saw Mr Johnson suggesting the double-length bendy buses were responsible for increased fatal road accidents related to public transport.

Incumbent mayor Mr Livingstone rebuffed the claim, pointing out bendy buses "work the most difficult routes" and said he preferred a major expansion of cycling in London instead.

"Where they've killed someone, it's not been because they're long – it's because someone's stepped under them," Mr Livingstone said.

Appearing at Romford market, Mr Johnson also insisted he had done enough to distance himself from the BNP, who have urged their voters to list the Conservative candidate as their second preference choice.

"I have made absolutely clear that I despise the BNP and don't want any votes from BNP supporters," he said.

Conservative councillor Andrew Curtin said he was pleased Mr Johnson had acted swiftly to distance his campaign from the BNP.