Tourism chiefs' fury at Ken

London's tourism chiefs today condemned Mayor Ken Livingstone's amazing outburst against US President George Bush, whom he called a "coward" and "corrupt".

Officials told how they fear the Mayor will put off American tourists and further damage London's struggling economy. One said: "It's a totally inappropriate thing to say."

Politicians from across the parties said the Mayor was entitled to his opinions but had to act as an ambassador for London. Mr Livingstone's deputy, Nicky Gavron, said: "I don't think it was in the interests of London to make these comments."

But today the Mayor stood by his blast and claimed he was "telling the truth" about Mr Bush.