In today's globalised world, having a diverse and multi-cultural society is paramount to creating a successful country and economy. Therefore, London is a massive asset for the UK, not only because it brings in the lions-share of the UK's money but also because of its healthily diverse population. In fact, London's variety and quality have lead to it becoming the most international city in the world. The dynamic culture today, combined with over 2,000 years of rich history leads to a London that strongly attracts talent from all over the planet.

The days when London was full of cheeky cockneys looking for the best of British on the market have not completely disappeared but some may lament the decline. However, now the markets showcase delicious food from all over the world, with different flavours and textures being traded by different languages and colours of skin.

Unlimited Diversity is London's main strength. It is not just the people of London who have become more multicultural; the arts world in London has also embraced diversity. The artistic and cultural life of London is vital to the capital's success. Not only enriching the minds of the people but also enriching their wallets, the creative industry in London generates £21 billion a year and keeps 0.5 million people in work. From classic oil paintings by the old masters to modern art sculptures along the South Bank, London has it all.

To highlight the diversity in London, I will run over some statistics from 2006:

• London has 7.5 million inhabitants
• 30.6% of the people of London are non-white
• 58% of London is White British
• 13.1% of Londoners are of South Asian descent
• 10.7% of the population in London are Black
• 1.5% of London inhabitants are Chinese
• 3.5% of the people living in London are mixed race - An excellent example of cultural diversity: Over a quarter of a million people in London have more than one race in their family tree
• More than 300 languages are spoken in London
• More than 50 non-indigenous communities live in London
• 58.2% of Londoners are Christian
• 15.8% of people in London have no religion
• London is 8.5% Muslim
• London is 4.1% Hindu
• London is 2.1% Jewish
• London is 1.5% Sikh
• London is 0.8% Buddhist

Finally, to quote the previous Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone writing for the Guardian:

"Our cultural environment - alongside our natural and built environment - sets the stage on which our lives are played out. That is why the open, dynamic and accessible quality of our cultural life - meeting the needs of all our population, whatever their age, tastes, physical abilities or background - is a crucial policy issue in its own right.

As Mayor I would continue to support its cultural life for the benefit of all its citizens and the delight of the whole world."

London is undoubtedly a city of the people. Please come to London and include yourself in the rich, diverse and multi-cultural society here.