Boris Johnson, the new mayor of London, has appointed Tory Richard Barnes as one of his deputy mayors.

Barnes is the London Assembly member for Ealing and Hilldingdon. He holds a degree in economics from the University of Wales, according to Pink News — which listed him as one of the top 50 lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender politicians in the United Kingdom.

Johnson also appointed gay officials Brian Coleman and Simon Milton to prominent roles. Pink News reports:

Mr Barnes is not the only prominent gay man in the new administration.

Another gay Tory Assembly Member, Brian Coleman, has been appointed Chairman of the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority.

Sir Simon Milton, leader of Westminster Council, becomes a Senior Adviser on Planning. Knighted in the 2006 New Year’s Honours List, he publicly declared his sexuality and married his long-term partner Councillor Robert Davis at The Ritz hotel last year.

Commenting on the appointments, Mayor of London Boris Johnson said:

“I promised during the election campaign that I would be backed up by a strong team of advisers who will help me deliver my agenda of change for London.

“Yesterday I was able to reveal that Ray Lewis would join me in the fight against gun and knife crime in taking the important role of Deputy Mayor, Young People.

“Ray will work closely with Kit Malthouse who has agreed to become Deputy Mayor with responsibility for Policing.

“I’m also happy to welcome into City Hall Ian Clement and Simon Milton, two experienced public servants who have a fantastic record of delivery in local government.

“I have no doubt that this team will back me all the way in working tirelessly for London over the coming years.”