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@lpg
I wouldn't try and advocate a ban on HGV use in London, it won't happen, at least not at a scale that would be bring fatalities right down. No government would have the balls to do it. We have a system in the UK where we are heavily dependant on our road network to transport goods. Our economy needs things to be moved, as quickly, cheaply, and effectively as possible. Using the roads is, in many cases, unavoidable. It is just not practical to think we can shift it on to rail or river, the industry has neither the money nor the inclination to do so. It would also take years and years to make the shift, cost a hell of a lot of money, and be very unpopular with a lot of people.
Special mirrors could easily be fitted to all new HGVs, maybe a warning movement sensor for the dreaded left-hooks. All current haulage/construction companies could buy the mirrors at a subsidised price.
Also, I think there is something to be said for some kind of bike training. Not at a level where we would need licenses or numberplates, but maybe something like the equivalent of a CBT for motorcycles, only far intensive.. There could be a number of incentives new riders to train, by giving out free cycle lights/HiViz, or something similar, or there could be free govt. safety packs given out with every new bike purchase.
I think focusing on small things like these.. reducing blind spots/training/lights, is a much better idea. It is far cheaper, far easier to implement, far easier to legislate for, and I believe would go a long way to reducing cyclist fatalities. Don't set your sights too high.