Young London wants Cameron as PM and Clarkson as Mayor

YOUNG Londoners back David Cameron by almost two to one to become Britain's next prime minister - and favour either Jeremy Clarkson or Sir Alan Sugar to be Mayor of London, a new poll reveals.

Many 16- to 24-year-olds are more politically committed than commonly assumed but most believe their views are ignored, the survey also found.

The YouGov poll for London arts venue and charity The Roundhouse, revealed exclusively to the Evening Standard, shows young people in the capital are largely optimistic about their futures. But just over half (51 per cent) fear they will lose their job in the recession, and 69 per cent disagreed with the statement "London's streets are generally getting safer for young people".

In a finding which will delight the Tories, Mr Cameron was chosen by 35 per cent of young voters as their choice for premier. Gordon Brown and Nick Clegg garnered 16 and 13 per cent of votes respectively. A quarter prefer none of the current party leaders.

On the mayoralty, there were surprising results. Business guru and The Apprentice star Sir Alan and Top Gear presenter Clarkson were the top choice for City Hall, on 16 per cent each. More young Londoners think the Mayor should be someone independent rather than a party politician.

Many felt their friends, family and teachers were "more inspiring" than celebrities. Three quarters think politics should be a key part of the school curriculum, and nearly four out of five felt they were not listened to by those in power.

The poll was conducted as part of Turning Point, a three-day music festival from 8 to 10 May, run by young people. Marcus Davey Roundhouse chief executive, said: "Young Londoners can achieve great things, but as our poll shows, too many still don't feel they have the opportunity to do so."