London mayor Ken Livingstone has set up a housing commission to advise on affordable housing and develop planning policies to create more low-cost homes. The establishment of the commission fulfils one of Mr Livingstone's election pledges. He said it was vital to tackle the 'housing crisis' in London which had led to large numbers of rough sleepers and priced out 'essential workers' including those in the NHS. Eighteen people will serve on the commission to be chaired by Chris Holmes, director of Shelter.