Speaking in Beijing ahead of the closing ceremony of the Paralympic Games tomorrow when he will receive the flag on behalf of London, Johnson said that the 2012 Olympics must be used to help make the capital easier for the disabled to navigate.

He said that London must do “everything possible” to maximise access to the city’s hotels, restaurants and nightspots as well as the Games themselves.

Johnson said: “I want everyone who comes to London to enjoy every aspect of their stay, including Paralympians, disabled spectators, and anyone who may have difficulty moving around the capital.

“So I urge all London businesses, including shops, restaurants and hotels, to start thinking now about how they can make their goods and services as accessible as possible in time for and to reap the benefits of the 2012 Games.”