Summary
This report provides an update on recent work in pursuit of devolution and reform of public services in London. This work follows the agreement to a joint approach with the Mayor of London, seeking talks with Government on the scope of London devolution and public service reform agreement.
The Congress Executive, comprising the Mayor of London and the London Councils’ Executive, met on 3 March 2015 and endorsed the joint work to develop a framework for negotiation with the incoming Government. This framework covers:
• Skills
• Employment
• Housing
• Health
• Crime, Community Safety and Criminal Justice
The Congress Executive went on to initiate an exploration of the potential for joint executive governance in relation to newly devolved responsibilities, whilst respecting existing borough and mayoral powers.
Recommendations
Leaders’ Committee is asked to:
1) Note the endorsement of the joint work- between the Mayor of London and London Councils- to pursue devolution and reform at the Congress Executive on 3 March 2015.
2) Note the joint work that has been initiated to:
a. develop a platform to support negotiation with Government after the 2015 General Election and in the run up to the likely Comprehensive Spending Review.
b. explore the potential for streamlined governance in relation to newly devolved responsibilities.