The mayor hopes to draw tourists into London

He dismissed the suggestion at the celebrity launch of Totally London - a �3.8m month-long scheme to boost visitors from around London and the home counties.

Last week Mr Livingstone branded George W Bush a "coward" and the illegally-elected leader of a "venal and corrupted administration".

He said: "I do not think anybody I have met books their holiday on the basis of the views of the local mayor."

He was joined by television celebrity Ruby Wax, footballer-turned-presenter Ian Wright, chef Aldo Zilli, DJ Dr Fox, Tamara Beckwith and models covered in body paint for the launch in Leicester Square .

Totally London, which runs from 17 May to 15 June, is part of a major recovery package to offset a tourism slump since 11 September.

If this rumour gets around that there is a deal to be had, believe me, the Americans will be over here in a shot Ruby Wax

Shops, restaurants, theatres, museums, hotels and transport services will be providing special offers to entice people into the city.

Passengers will be offered unlimited daily bus travel on some routes for just �1 on five weekends, while there will be children-go-free deals on Tubes and buses during the first three weekends of June.

The Tower of London, Madame Tussauds, London Zoo, the London Eye and Tate Britain are some of the attractions taking part.

Mr Livingstone said: "You can enjoy the diversity that our fantastic capital has to offer.

"For the whole month you can enjoy a whole range of brilliant offers never seen before."

Ruby Wax said: "If this rumour gets around that there is a deal to be had, believe me, the Americans will be over here in a shot."

The scheme is being organised by Mr Livingstone and the London Tourist Board.