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London Assembly 15 September 2004

Forty-Fourth Mayor’s Report to the Assembly Author: The Mayor

This is my forty-fourth report to the Assembly, fulfilling my duty under Section 45 of the Greater London Authority Act 1999. It covers the period from 2 July – 1 September 2004.

Transport

2004 Spending Review

On 20 July, the allocation of funds for transport under the 2004 Spending Review was made with the Secretary of State for Transport granting permission for TfL to borrow nearly £3 billion over the next five years. This will allow the Olympic projects to proceed, including the East London Line. This groundbreaking package will also help give a degree of assurance over funding provision for future projects as it gives TfL certainty over the next 5 years.

I also welcomed the announcement that Alistair Darling MP, the Secretary of State for Transport will proceed with a Hybrid Bill for the construction of Crossrail. This announcement opens the possibility of London’s most important transport development for 40 years. Crossrail will give London the backbone of a 21st century transport system, underpinning hundreds of thousands of jobs in London’s financial district and sustaining London’s position as the world’s leading international financial centre. There are tough negotiations ahead before Crossrail can be built, above all on funding, but the Government is to be congratulated in the strongest terms for having the courage to take this vital step for London.

Crossrail’s interchange with the rebuilt and extended East London Line, which was also given the go-ahead in the Transport Secretary’s statement on the Government’s five year transport plan and transport Spending Review, will give easy transport access from London’s most deprived areas to its most dynamic business district. This is not just a transport scheme but also an economic strategy for London.

TfL can now proceed with the East London Line extension, transit schemes in East London and Greenwich and extensions to the DLR and its services and is a major boost to London’s 2012 Olympic bid. However, the great majority of the extra funding announced in the Transport Spending Review would be going to Network Rail to deal with the disastrous consequences of rail privatisation. As a result TfL had not secured the extra revenue resources that its successful track record merited and would face some difficult decisions in finalising its business plan.

It is excellent news that the Government has accepted my proposal that TfL should take over construction of the urgently needed East London Line extension and agreed the borrowing approval we need. It also shows the total commitment of the Government and I to London’s Olympic bid.

Further to this announcement on 17 August, I also confirmed that Wapping and Rotherhithe tube stations will be retained in plans for the East London Line extension. Following discussions with the East London Line Extension project team, it is now planned to keep both Rotherhithe

1 Item 4 and Wapping stations open after the project is completed in 2010. The Government's recent announcement that Transport for London can take forward the project is a major boost for east and south London and it is now even better news for those living near these two stations.

Both Wapping and Rotherhithe residents have been actively campaigning to keep these stations open and I am delighted to reassure both communities in London that their stations will be safe.

2004 Rail Review

I welcomed the Department for Transport's announcement on 15 July of greater powers to TfL to specify and upgrade London's rail services within, and potentially beyond, the Greater London Authority boundary. The publication of the Government’s Rail Review in July provided the potential to bring London’s transport modes closer together into a unified structure in the future

This will give TfL more responsibility for passenger services running into and through London. Devolution has already delivered less congestion and better buses for the capital and this is a real opportunity to deliver improved services for rail passengers. Under my plans, and with the Government's support, London would have a truly integrated transport network run with the single aim of putting passengers first.

Congestion Charge Western Extension

On 11 August I published a revision to my Transport Strategy, which allows for a possible westward extension of the congestion charging scheme. Before publishing that revision I considered TfL’s report to me of its extensive consultation, involving over 100,000 respondents.

The principal proposal contained in the revised Strategy is that TfL will investigate the potential for an extended congestion charging scheme covering the area broadly bounded by Harrow Road, Scrubs Lane, West Cross Route, Earls Court One Way System and Chelsea Embankment, and that subject to those investigations, and subject also to the availability of funding, TfL will make an Order extending the present scheme to include areas to the west of the present charging zone.

The proposed western extension to the congestion charge is a logical step in the development of the zone but should not be undertaken without further investigation and consultation, in order to address the many issues that were raised during the consultation. TfL will hold a series of meetings with local boroughs and it will then consult more widely on the relative merits of the alternative boundary and resident discount zone options, and other matters.

The proposal to extend the congestion charging zone is clearly controversial. However, consultations of this type, while extremely useful, tend to draw responses primarily from those opposed to whatever is being consulted upon. I remember that prior to the introduction of the existing congestion charging scheme people were opposed to it, but since its launch there has been a marked increase in acceptance with most people supportive of it.

The earliest TfL could make an Extension Order would be in early 2005 with possible confirmation in Summer 2005, and the earliest a scheme could be operational would be in late 2006. The actual implementation date, however, would depend upon a number of issues, including the outcome of the consultation, satisfactory procurement of new and additional services, and availability of funding. Any further proposals would be carefully considered by me before any confirmation by me of a TfL Extension Order as is required to allow it to come into effect.

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White City Derailment Final report

On 19 August, London Underground published the Final Report of the investigation into the derailment at White City that occurred on 11 May this year. The report concluded that the main contributory factor was the failure of Metronet to comply with specific measures introduced by LU in regards to the replacement of specific rails during maintenance in areas with specific characteristics. These measures were brought in as a result of the Camden Town derailment in 2003. Inadequate communication and management within Metronet was identified as a main factor in its failure to fully comply with these new measures.

The report also found that LU did not adequately monitor and confirm with Metronet that the new measures were being property implemented. In all, the report made nine recommendations that aim to address all the underlying causes of the incident, and London Underground will be working very closely with Metronet and the other Infracos to ensure that lessons are learnt from this incident and will ensure that the recommendations in the report are implemented.

Strike Talks

The threat of further strike action on the Underground was reduced on 11 August when Aslef accepted the latest two-year deal over pay and conditions. This is a welcome move and TfL look forward to securing the agreement of all the trades unions including the RMT to the two-year deal at the earliest opportunity.

Major Transport Projects Map

On 6 July, a new map was launched including all the major transport projects planned for the next ten years including Crossrail, the East London Line Extension, Thameslink 2000 and DLR extensions.

Improved transport infrastructure is vital for London to maintain the international competitiveness upon which our prosperity depends. This map shows how London’s transport system will look in 2016 if we make the essential investments in the city’s transport infrastructure. These investments are necessary to sustain London’s growth and prosperity and will enhance the economic growth prospects and productivity of the entire United Kingdom. This map represents the future of London’s transport system and shows what we need to do to ensure our city’s future success.

TfL Board Appointments

On 6 July, I announced my intention to appoint ten people to the TfL Board, plus three special advisors. I also announced that I shall continue to chair the Board, reaffirming my commitment to improving transport across London.

The appointments to TfL Board are as follows:

• Dave Wetzel, who has extensive experience in the transport field and is currently vice- chair of the TfL Board • David Begg, chairman of the Commission for Integrated Transport and Director of the Centre for Transport Policy at Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen • Stephen Glaister, Professor of Transport and Infrastructure at Imperial College London

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• Kirsten Hearn, who has extensive senior level experience in public service, training, community action and creative arts • Sir Mike Hodgkinson, Chairman of the Post Office • Susan Kramer, who has held a range of senior positions in London's finance and business sector and was the Liberal Democrat candidate for Mayor of London in the May 2000 election • Paul Moore, vice-chair of transport at the GLC from 1981 to 1986, and also has wide trade union experience • Sir Gulam Noon, chairman of Noon Products Limited • Patrick O'Keeffe, Transport and General Workers Union Regional Organiser for the London and South East • John Ormerod, who is a former senior partner at Deloitte.

The three special advisors to be appointed to the Board are Lynn Sloman, Bryan Heiser, and Murziline Parchment.

I have invited the Deputy Mayor, Nicky Gavron to attend TfL Board meetings as an observer with a right to speak, but not vote. I have also approved the terms and conditions of appointment to the TfL Board and the remuneration structure for TfL Board members.

Targets for Implementation for the Transport Strategy and LIP Guidance

I have approved the proposed targets for implementation of the Transport Strategy and approved the proposed text of LIP Guidance in relation to preparation of Local Implementation Plans by the boroughs. The guidance fulfils policy 5.4 of the Transport Strategy, which states that I will issue guidance to the London boroughs and other stakeholders so that the boroughs can set out detailed requirements for their Local Implementation Plans.

'Back to Work' pilot travel scheme extension

On 6 August I announced the extension of the pilot scheme until the end of the year which has been designed to help Londoners move into employment. Open to residents in seven London local authorities, the scheme entitles people who are moving from benefits into work and qualify for Working Tax Credit to a 30% discount on travel for the first six months of their employment and so aims to alleviate some of the initial costs people face when they start work after a period of unemployment.

There are a number of obstacles facing people returning to work after a long period of unemployment including buying suitable clothes, paying off arrears and the extra costs of travel. By bringing down the cost of travel this scheme will help people through the crucial first six months. This important programme has already helped many Londoners and I hope many more people will be able to benefit from the help on offer.

The pilot scheme started in January 2004 and will now run until the end of the year. Qualifying individuals will receive a photocard from TfL, which will entitle them to the concessionary fares on seven day, monthly and longer period Travelcards and all London bus passes.

The seven pilot boroughs are: Hammersmith and Fulham, Hounslow, Ealing, Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets and the Corporation of London.

London Development Agency

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LDA Board Appointments

On 9 August I confirmed the full London Development Agency board appointments. The appointments began with effect from 1 August 2004 and include the appointment of a new Chair and Deputy Chair. The new Board is composed of:

• Mary Reilly (Chair) - current LDA board member • John Biggs AM (Vice-Chair) - current LDA board member • Sally Powell - current LDA board member • Mick Connolly - current LDA board member • Yvonne Thompson - current LDA board member • George Kessler - current LDA board member • Michael Frye - current LDA board member • Lord Paul - current LDA board member • Tamara Ingram - current LDA board member • Jeremy Long - new LDA board member • Alison Wheaton - new LDA board member • Eric Ollerenshaw - new LDA board member • Rumman Ahmed - new LDA board member • Steve Hitchins - new LDA board member • Charles Secrett - new LDA board member

The appointments are for a period of four years and fulfil my statutory obligation to consult with such persons that represent local authorities within the LDA’s area, employers and employees in the LDA’s area and the GLA. I have also agreed the proposed remuneration for the LDA Board members

The new Chair of the LDA Mary Reilly is the Chair of the CBI’s London Regional Council, a partner at Deloitte and Touche and a board member of London 2012. She has been vice-chair of the LDA Board since December 2003 and a member of its board since the agency’s inception in June 2000. I am delighted to be able to appoint such an experienced and highly regarded successor to Honor Chapman. Mary has strong business credentials combined with an in-depth knowledge of the challenges that London faces to maintain its international competitiveness and regenerate the areas of greatest need across the capital.

Honor Chapman successfully led the task of restructuring of the agency to move it from its start-up phase into a fully operational Regional Development Agency, which is now largely completed. I have also announced my intention to appoint Honor as the Executive Chair for London’s Centre for Regeneration Excellence. I am very pleased that she will continue her significant contribution to the Greater London Authority by chairing London’s Centre for Regeneration Excellence, which will build on the key role Honor has played as Chair of the LDA board and means that the Centre of Excellence will benefit from her strong research and development expertise.

LDA Annual Appraisal Report

In accordance with the LDA Monitoring and Performance Evaluation Framework, which I approved in September 2003, the GLA has produced an annual appraisal report of the LDA’s performance relating to the year 2003/04. I have approved the report for submission to the Government Office for London.

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The LDA have had the opportunity to provide comments and has agreed with the recommendations of the report.

London Tourism Action Recovery Plan

I have approved the update to the London Development Agency's London Tourism Action Plan 2003/06 and the transfer some Lead Partner Delivery roles.

In 2001/02, I authorised the LDA to exercise my statutory powers in order to meet my duty to promote tourism. This was renewed in 2002/03, and the arrangement continued under the tourism delegation. The delivery of the London Tourism Action Plan has been led by the LDA, which has also devolved some of these functions, particularly for marketing and promotion, through contractual arrangements with other bodies, primarily Visit London.

Over the first period in the delivery of the London Tourism Action Plan, it has been evident that many of the conditions envisaged whilst the plan was being developed have changed significantly. Therefore in order to adapt to and reflect the altered circumstances an update has taken place to realign the headline actions and the lead partners and the provisional LDA budgets have been identified.

These changes will take place as part of a phased process and appropriate monitoring arrangements will be put in place.

Building 1000

Building 1000, the £70m landmark first phase of the Royals Business Park, being jointly developed by Development Securities PLC, Standard Life Investments and the LDA, has now been completed.

Designed by Aukett, the speculative development consists of two high specification glass and steel buildings, totalling 237,000 sq ft. These are linked by a spectacular Winter Garden and overlooking the Royal Albert Dock and London City Airport. Building 1000 was completed in just 73 weeks by Bowmer & Kirkland, using a special Australian 'strong force' system not widely seen in the UK, and large scale prefabrication. When completed, the 50-acre site will be London's largest urban park with 1.6m sq ft of offices and 100,000 sq ft of retail and leisure, extensive landscaping and public spaces.

Stansted Jobs boost for East London

Jobless people across East London will now be able to share in the benefits from the expansion of Stansted Airport. A new £1.3m scheme, which was officially launched on 7 July, will give unemployed people in Barking and Dagenham, Tower Hamlets, Newham and many surrounding areas the chance to get one of the 5000 jobs being created at the airport over the next five years. Extra baggage and freight handlers, check-in staff, flight attendants, security, shop work, bar staff and cleaners are needed to cope with growing passenger numbers, which are expected to rise from around 20 million per year currently to over 31 million per year by 2010.

Under the scheme, which has been set up by the Thames Gateway London Stansted Partnership, participants will undergo a free four-week training course to work on interview techniques, CV writing and other job-hunting skills. All those taking part are guaranteed a job interview at the end of the course and successful candidates will be given a year’s free transport to Stansted from Stratford station with National Express coaches using the Airport Travel Card.

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Thames Gateway Flood Defence

New parks, wetlands and riverside paths are set to form the backbone of a radical and sophisticated drive to reduce the risks of flooding to people and property in the Thames Gateway. The measures form the next generation of flood management and will provide a more attractive environment, good access to the river and good value for money.

A major Strategic Flood Risk Assessment will be carried out in London Thames Gateway over the coming months. This will help plan the location and design of buildings and green spaces, ensuring that developments include management of flood risk from the outset and make the best use of the innovative solutions.

This approach of strategic assessment and new-style flood management was outlined by a partnership of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, London Development Agency, Environment Agency and Thames Gateway London Partnership and was supported by the Association of British Insurers.

The approach marks a major commitment to tackling the issue in a positive way, using flood management to create attractive and high-quality places to live. Popular examples in London where the techniques have been used include the carefully landscaped square in front of the Tate Modern and Sutcliffe Park in Greenwich.

Energy Network in the Royal Docks

The LDA has signed a £6m contract with EDF Energy to build a new electricity network in the Royal Docks. The deal marks a major step forward in the area’s development, including plans to provide 10,000 new homes.

The new network will provide up to 82 Mega Watts of electrical power to meet the Royal Docks’ anticipated energy needs for the next 12 years, giving developers greater certainty in investing in the area.

The LDA brokered the deal with a grant from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister’s Communities Plan Fund. The announcement came as a separate LDA study shows that new development in the London Thames Gateway could require over 800MW more energy by 2016 - and that development could stall without intervention.

This deal will make a major contribution to meeting the Gateway’s energy needs and will act as a catalyst to the Royal Docks’ continued renewal. Instead of leaving developers and energy providers to wait for each other to make the first move, this deal will drive the area’s transformation and showing how serious we are about creating communities that have all the services and facilities they need to thrive.

Crystal Palace Park and Sports Centre

Londoners will get the chance to have their say on ideas for rejuvenating Crystal Palace Park and the National Sports Centre, when the LDA begins a large-scale public consultation from 18- 26 September. The LDA is to take on responsibility for the sports centre in 2006 and possibly for the park as a whole by 2009. The consultation is an opportunity to greatly improve the park and its facilities.

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The sports centre is the home of many London and national sports bodies, but within five to eight years will need major works to maintain standards. The park – which was once home to the FA Cup Final and the world-famous Crystal Palace and still boasts a 150-year-old dinosaur park – also needs considerable work to fulfil its potential.

The park’s prospects took a major leap forward earlier this year when the LDA, Sport England, Bromley Council, the Government and I agreed a deal to save the sports centre. Following this deal, Sport England invested £1.5m in the athletics track so that the Grand Prix could be held there in the summer.

I was pleased to welcome to Crystal Palace the international athletes who competed in this year’s Norwich Union LONDON Grand Prix on 30 July. Many of the world's greatest athletes and sporting stars came to London for this year's Norwich Union LONDON Grand Prix ahead of the Olympics. The event acts as an excellent ambassador for London and for the achievements of the UK’s athletes. More tickets were sold in the month after the launch this year than ever before - a clear demonstration of the public demand for athletics in London.

This support also demonstrates why it has been vital to secure the long-term future of the Crystal Palace sports complex. The stadium and sports centre are vital facilities for London’s elite and aspiring athletes and a major asset to the local community. With international sports governing bodies keen to bring their events to London, Crystal Palace is the only venue capable of hosting them. I am confident that we have found the right solution for Crystal Palace to ensure it hosts spectacular athletics events for many years to come.

We want to develop first-class sports facilities, boost local businesses, bring in jobs and create an excellent learning resource for local schools. This is a wonderful opportunity to make the park truly great again and I hope Londoners participate in the consultation and take the chance to let us know what they think.

Olympic Aquatics Centre

I am pleased that the competition to design the Olympic Aquatics Centre has captured the imagination of the architectural world. The Olympic Aquatics Centre will be a key venue in the planned Olympic Park in East London, proposed for the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games bid.

The competition has attracted an impressive national and international field, with nearly 200 expressions of interest, resulting in almost 40 submissions. Six architectural practices / teams have now been short-listed for this hugely exciting project. These are Faulkner Browns / Make, Bennetts / Studio Zoppini, Zaha Hadid, Behnisch, Behnisch and Partner, Dominique Perrault, and Massimiliano Fuksas.

The flagship swimming facility, to be funded by Sport England, will provide a world class training facility for elite swimmers and will be a lasting legacy for the local communities, enabling people of all ages and abilities to achieve new levels of health and fitness. The government has committed to an aquatics centre being built whatever the outcome of the bid.

Tour of Britain

The Tour of Britain cycle race arrives in London on 5 September as the event returns to the UK sporting calendar. The race, which includes world-class cyclists from the Tour de France and the Athens Olympic Games, will be held in five stages across the country from 1-5 September. The Tour involves sixteen of the world’s top professional teams, and begins in Manchester on 1

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September, followed by stages in Yorkshire, the East Midlands and South Wales. The final leg of the Tour will be held in central London with the finish line on Whitehall.

After a five-year absence it is great news to see the Tour of Britain back on the sporting calendar, especially as London is hosting the final leg.

With ever-increasing numbers of cyclists in the capital I am sure Londoners will give the Tour the same enthusiastic welcome they have given to recent events such as the London Marathon and the Olympic Torch Relay, which gained such a tremendous response on the streets.

Ninety-six riders will contest four stages over 500 miles around the country before they reach the final London stage. It is the first time the race has been in the UK since 1999, when it attracted an estimated 3 million spectators along its route.

Competitors will ride 45 laps of a circuit made up of Whitehall, Northumberland Avenue, The Embankment, Bridge Street and finishing back at Whitehall. For many of the riders it will be the first time that they have competed in the UK and a unique chance to ride past iconic London landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, 10 Downing St and Trafalgar Square.

Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Industry investment

The LDA is to invest £3.5m over the next four years to create top-quality chefs, hotel managers, tour guides and other hospitality, tourism and leisure staff in London. The investment and action plan is set out in a recent report by the Agency, which highlights the massive importance of the hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism sectors to London’s economy.

The report, which says that the sector accounts for 430,000 jobs in London amongst 47,000 businesses, estimates that between one third and two fifths of these firms have difficulty recruiting staff in London. The LDA’s action plan is part of its work to attract more high- spending visitors to the capital, especially business tourists. Around 7 million people come to London on business each year, which is around a quarter of the total number of visitors. However they account for one-third of all tourism spending in London each year.

The quality of service that customers receive is a hugely important factor in the attractiveness of any business in this sector. The LDA is working in partnership with the private sector and other public sector bodies to tackle the issues highlighted by the report so that London is able to maintain its position as one of the world’s great cities in which to live, work, study and visit. This projects aims to help improve the experience for visitors and attract more high-spending business tourists to London. It will also ensure people working in the industry improve their skills and jobs prospects whilst also enabling firms to raise their competitiveness in this dynamic sector.

The LDA has run several pilot projects in partnership with high-profile organisations including Conran restaurants and the Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill in central London. During these courses, frontline catering staff improved their skills in champagne pouring, cigar choice, cocktail making and meat carving as well as their knowledge of English. The pilots have been well received by students and the industry. They have also been endorsed by the Academy of Wine and Food Service, which promotes professional service standards for food, wine and bar staff.

The training courses will begin in January 2005 and it is planned that the project will give jobs to 950 unemployed people, provide additional help to 250 businesses and enable 1500 people already in the industry to get extra training. The LDA is particularly interested in supporting

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London 2012 Olympic Bid

Athens 2004

I visited the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens from 14-19 August and by the end of my visit, I was even more convinced of London's ability to host the Olympic Games in 2012 and the benefits the Games would bring to Londoners and to sport in the capital. The visit was an extremely useful fact-finding trip and we have learned an enormous amount to help us make London and even stronger candidate to host the 2012 Olympics.

On the Sunday, the presentation of London’s plans and the loud and clear message of total government support from the Prime Minister were very well received.

Our case has been strengthened by the extra £3 billion in transport investment agreed by the government in their recent Spending Review. Londoners are already seeing the impact and benefit of the bid with the go-ahead for the East London Line extension running from Hackney to Croydon. I was also able to confirm in Athens that we have existing plans for a permanent legacy of new sports facilities in East London. These will bring new opportunities for Londoners young and old and also enable the capital to host international sporting championships for decades to come.

There is more work to do to bring the 2012 Games to London, but I am more certain than ever of our ability to host them and of the benefits they will bring for sport and for Londoners.

My visit to Athens included the press conference with London 2012 and Secretary of State Tessa Jowell MP, tours of the Olympic Stadium, the athletes’ village and Athens new transport operation, plus visits to a number of sporting competitions.

I was particularly delighted to see the medals won by some of London’s Olympians and I sent a message of praise and congratulation to Team GB medal winners, to all the athletes who competed at the Games and also to those who contributed to their achievements. I also congratulated the hosts, Greece and in particular the city of Athens, on their achievement in staging the Games.

Team GB medal winners with London connections deserve the congratulations of the whole city for their superb achievements in becoming Athens medallists at this 2004 Olympic Games. Thousands of Londoners have seen our sporting elite compete and succeed at the highest level of their discipline. Their hard work and success has brought pleasure and pride to London as well as to the rest of the UK.

I hope that that the spectacle of the Athens Games and the achievements of the British team will inspire Londoners and the whole of the UK in our efforts to bring the 2012 Games to London. In one of its most successful Games ever Team GB has delivered a truly superb performance. We are looking forward to the opportunity to host the Games in 2012 and the chance to celebrate a similar or even better medal haul in front of a home crowd.

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Countdown to Olympic Decision

On 6 July 2004, one year ahead of the decision on whether London will host the 2012 Olympic Games, I highlighted a series of events that will showcase the city. Events such as the parade of Formula One cars through the streets of London; the launch of London TV and the hosting of the European Social Forum in the city in October all highlight London’s dynamism and diversity. London is an exciting and dynamic city, uniquely placed to attract international events. In the coming 12 months, as we build up to the decision on who will host the 2012 Olympics, London will have every opportunity to showcase our international credentials.

The parade of Formula One cars through Regent St, with some of the top cars on the circuit, was an ideal opportunity to promote London as venue for top class events, and hopefully the first step in bringing the Grand Prix to our great city.

Visit London’s new channel, London TV, will be the perfect medium to provide Londoners with the inside track on all of the city’s fantastic entertainment and cultural activities. The first dedicated city channel in the world, London TV sets the pace for tourist promotion. While attracting the European Social Forum to the city brings thousand of visitors into the London, boosting tourism and enhancing our status as the international venue of choice.

In addition to this, the government's recent funding announcement for London transport will make the city's transport package for 2012 the best the Olympic Games has ever seen. Much of this money will go towards projects that will significantly improve transport to London’s Olympic Park. The East London Line extension, which will be delivered well in advance of 2012, will significantly free up capacity on London's rail and Underground lines that serve the Olympic Park and increase transport choices for those visiting the main Games' site to the east of the capital.

With ten rail lines feeding the main Olympic site at a total capacity of 240,000 passengers per hour and a train every 15 seconds, we already knew we could deliver exceptional transport to and from this greatest of global sporting competitions. But with the East London Line extension it will be even easier for people to get quickly and safely to the main London Olympic venues. Coupled with major improvements to other key routes, and with the Channel Tunnel Rail Link taking passengers from the centre of the capital to the Olympic Park in just seven minutes, London's Olympic transport package is now truly world-beating.

The UK government's funding gives sufficient money to secure a number of schemes that will help transport people to the London Games:

• East London Line extension - a vital north-south London link. This will move around 10,000 spectators around the city daily • Increased capacity on the Docklands Light Railway, London's light rail link that serves the key east London venues • Upgrade of the Jubilee Line, an Underground line that serves the main Olympic site - which will increase capacity on this line by 45% • Upgrades to other overland and Underground lines serving the Olympic Park, including the Central Line and North London Line • East London Transit and Greenwich Waterfront Transit – two dedicated busway facilities that will provide useful feeder links to the Olympic Park and other East London Venues • Currently all London taxis are fully accessible, by 2005 all London Buses will be too • By 2012 all Underground stations will have been modernised or refurbished

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The Olympic Transport Strategy Team set up by TfL has been set the challenge of designing a world class transport solution that supports London's bid for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

London has the most comprehensive transport network in the world and in light of July's funding announcement the team is even more certain that by 2012, for the four weeks of the Games, it will deliver an even better transport system.

Children and Young People

Kids Swim Free

On 26 July, the second Kids Swim free scheme began for school children in the five boroughs involved in the Olympic Bid. Up to 160,000 children under 16 from the London 2012 host boroughs - Greenwich, Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest – were eligible for Kids Swim Free cards giving them free entry to local authority swimming pools between 26 July and 31 August.

The summer scheme follows the highly successful pilot which Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Schools, Stephen Twigg MP and I launched in the Easter holidays. The overall aim of the scheme is to increase the number of children swimming and to provide an opportunity to promote physical activity amongst children and their families.

A study by the Institute of Child Health at University College London indicates that, where provision is available and affordable, children are eager to take up swimming, with the number of swims taken in the five boroughs being more than double than in the previous year.

Kids Swim Free resulted in a twofold increase in swims during the Easter holidays, with over 75,000 compared to 32,000 the year before, as well as significant increases in swimming lessons taken. The impact was particularly impressive amongst children from deprived neighbourhoods and ethnic minority communities. If additional funding becomes available I would like to see the scheme roll out to other boroughs in the future.

The summer holiday scheme was funded by the GLA, LDA, DfES, DCMS, London 2012 and the participating boroughs.

Playday

Through my Children and Young People's strategy I have made a commitment to improve and promote the access of young Londoners to leisure, culture, play, sports and the arts. Children and young people have the right under Article 31 of the UN Convention to rest and leisure, to engage in age-appropriate play and recreational activities and to take part in cultural life and the arts

This year as part of National Playday on 4 August, Trafalgar Square was transformed into a giant playground, with free activities for children up to 14 years including: Road Tennis, street games, face painting and African drumming. Transport for London and London Rail provided free transport for children and young people travelling as part of a family Travelcard.

I also launched the start of the of the public consultation of the “Draft guide to preparing play strategies - Towards the provision of safe and attractive play spaces in London's neighbourhoods”. The purpose of the strategy is to assist London boroughs and their partners

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Play and outdoor activity are widely recognised as important to children's physical and mental wellbeing, and their educational and social development. Yet children and young people say they experience many barriers to play and their enjoyment of public spaces, whilst fears about safety and traffic are major concerns for adults as well as children. There should be high quality provision for play in every neighbourhood and this guide aims to provide a framework for developing local play opportunities within a regional context. The consultation on the draft guide will run until 12 November.

I have also welcomed the announcement of a new London Lottery that will benefit play projects. It is hoped that thousands of pounds will be raised from this new mobile phone lottery in London.

Appointments

London Pension Fund Authority

I have agreed the following appointments to the London Pension Fund Authority for a period of one year commencing on 1 August 2004:

• Neil Newton • Niaz Alam • Ann Robinson • Jenny Rosser • Bill Roots • Andrew Cornwell • Michael Ward • Cllr Danny Connellan • Cllr Pamela Batty • Cllr Serge Lourie

In addition I have confirmed that Ray Ambrose, whose term of office does not expire until December 2004, will continue to be a board member.

I have agreed to appoint Neil Newton as Chair to the LPFA and have agreed that the terms and conditions of the appointment be the same as those previously prevailing.

Policing and Community Safety

Neighbourhood Policing Fund

On 19 July, I welcomed the Home Secretary’s announcement that the Government is set to invest in more front-line policing. Addressing the House of Commons, David Blunkett outlined his plans for a new £50 million Neighbourhood Policing Fund and the recruitment of 20,000 additional Community Support Officers.

The Home Secretary made clear that he shares my priorities for London – recruiting more police and cracking down on crime. Visible policing is the key to deterring criminals and cutting crime.

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London has led the way in increasing police numbers, recruiting 1,500 Police Community Support Officers and deploying new dedicated neighbourhood police teams to serve local communities right across London. As a result we have cut crime and the fear of crime.

I am delighted that the extra Spending Review resources will enable me to press ahead with my election commitment to continue to extend the dedicated police teams to more of London’s neighbourhoods.

Safer London Foundation

Following the agreement of the MPA Co-ordination of Policing Committee in March 2004, it was agreed to establish a new charitable company limited by guarantee, the Safer London Foundation. The creation of this charitable company will enable the MPA and MPS, via an affiliated but independent body, to use their expertise to support a wide range of charitable activities for vulnerable groups and individuals across London using funding streams and resources that they are unable to pursue as statutory bodies.

I have been asked by the founding Directors of the Foundation to nominate a representative of the Greater London Authority to join the Board of Directors and I have agreed that my nomination to the Board of Directors of the Safer London Foundation is Lee Jasper, Director - Policing and Equalities.

Anti-Gun Crime Initiative

I have approved the award of a contract to NACRO to undertake the evaluation of the GLA-led multi-agency anti-gun culture education initiative for a value of £35,769.

Culture

Respect 2004

This year’s respect festival took place at Victoria Park on 17 July. The respect festival highlights Londoners' commitment to a city that celebrates diversity and is opposed to racism. The event is a free party for everyone to enjoy and I am happy that so many talented performers took part to entertain the crowds and stand up against racism and intolerance.

The main stage featured Allison Limerick, Rodney P & Skitz, Big Brovaz Shystie, FYA as well as Ty, Lady Sovereign and Taz. Rishi Rich, featuring Jay Sean, and Raghav were amongst the Asian crossover stars performing on the day.

Activities for children and families included a children's play with bicycles, a train simulator and a community fun bus. There were also cultural stalls, a sports zone and refreshment tents.

Respect is organised by myself, with the National Assembly Against Racism, SERTUC and UNISON. This year's event attracted around 100,000 people

During Respect week which began on 10 July the GLA and ITV London created some short TV pieces on the festival's message of celebrating London's diversity, as well as providing more information on the event's related exhibitions, film and theatre, poetry and special events throughout the capital. The City Survival Guides cover an exhibition at the Museum of Immigration and Diversity which opened over respect week, an interview with Assembly Member

14 Item 4 for North East London Jennette Arnold, and an interview with the youth training organisation, Bigga Fish.

The respect festival is a celebration, but also a pledge to do all we can to eliminate discrimination and end racism. I see it as an absolutely central responsibility to make a stand against racism in all its forms and to find every means to promote confidence in the diversity of our city

Notting Hill Carnival

Celebrations of the 40th anniversary of the Notting Hill Carnival took place at this year’s event over the August Bank Holiday weekend, with around 75,000 people attending.

£10,000 was made available to Transport for London to assist in the development and implementation of a sustainable and effective system of core signage to improve public safety throughout the Carnival entertainment area.

I have also approved funding to the value of £27,250 from the agreed 2004/05 Notting Hill Carnival Budget to assist in the production of key events related to the Notting Hill Carnival and the celebration of its fortieth anniversary. This contribution consists of £25,000 to the Notting Hill Carnival Mas Bands Association to assist in the production of the Costume Gala which took place at Alexandra Palace on 14-15 August and £2,250 to the British Association of Steel Bands to assist in the production of the "Pan in the Square" event in Trafalgar Square on 1 August. These events led into the celebrations over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Prior to Carnival, I agreed funding of up to £128,000 to be made available to London Notting Hill Carnival Ltd (LNHCL) in order to enable it to recruit and deploy 350 stewards at Carnival and to deliver an effective and professional stewarding and route management operation this year. Payments to LHNC Ltd are subject to the agreed milestones in the Funding Schedule, of the Funding Agreement between the GLA and LNHC Ltd. I also approved an amendment to the original funding agreement so that it be revised to change the milestones and by making the last payment reliant on the production of accounts for 2003/04 by London Notting Hill Carnival Ltd.

London Mela

On Sunday 15 August, the London Mela took place at Gunnersbury Park, becoming the biggest outdoor Asian festival in the UK. Showcasing everything from classical music to urban grooves, traditional dance to mainstream pop and stand-up comedy, the London Mela burst on the scene in 2003, produced by Ealing Council and supported by the GLA. London’s Mela now serves as a global showcase of this great city's diversity and creativity

Headline UK artists included chart stars Jay Sean, Juggy D from the Rishi Rich Project, Raghav and Stereo Nation. The Mela featured both classical and modern contemporary artists from the UK and the subcontinent, featuring work inspired by and originating from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the global Asian Diaspora.

Acclaimed classical musicians flew in from India as a result of the developing cultural exchange following the Friendship Agreement between London and Delhi, which was signed by myself and Delhi's Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit in July 2002.

This year, the Mela also celebrated the Asian connections with the Notting Hill Carnival. The Din Shuru (Day breaks) procession uses dazzling costumes, dance and traditional rhythms to explore

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India’s links to the Carnival, which spills through Notting Hill’s streets each year. 48% of the population of Trinidad – the home of Carnival – is of Indian descent and their culture and heritage was drawn on when Trinidad Carnival emerged in the 1880s.

The London Mela provides a wonderful showcase of the many aspects of Asian culture, with something for all Londoners to enjoy. The spectacular Din Shuru carnival, with its celebration of tolerance, diversity and Indo-Caribbean culture, was a fitting and vibrant finale to the London Mela.

Dandia in the Square

On Sunday 8 August, in the run-up to the London Mela, Dandia in the Square took place. This was a participatory dance event, bringing together more than 100 Indian folk dance students from across London in a spectacular celebration of traditional Dandia Raas (Stick dancing).

With music provided by Strings, a 12 piece traditional band, it showcased exquisitely costumed performances. There were also participatory dance workshops for the public to learn the basics of Dandia Raas and Raas Garba, in preparation for a massive participatory dance piece across Trafalgar Square.

Dandia in the Square was part of the Trafalgar Square Summer 2004 fourth annual programme of free events. The internationally recognised public space provides a unique platform for music, street theatre and other live performance from the UK and overseas, right in the heart of the capital.

Asian London Guide 2004

On 20 July the “Asian London Guide 2004” was launched following the success of the last two years’ guides to the diverse range of entertainment and events provided by Asian communities within and from outside London. The 2004 guide outlined detailed listings and complete travel information for the summer’s vibrant Melas and other outdoor and indoor events including exhibitions, festivals and theatre, dance and musical performances throughout London – many of which are free.

Asian London Guide 2004 is not just about Asian events in the capital over the summer and autumn but is an extremely useful guide for the whole year round highlighting and describing key places to visit in the day and the evening from Southall in the west to Green Street in the east; showing where to find the best Bollywood cinemas; listing arts and cultural organisations, and detailing various Asian themed venues, galleries, clubs and media.

Asian London 2004 was distributed at theatres, libraries, bars, Asian community centres, cultural associations and tourist information points/organisations across London.

Capital Age Festival

On 8 August, the Capital Age Festival, part of a summer programme of Capital Age celebrations, took place. The programme took place across London’s boroughs, all aimed at older people. The festival was organised by the London Older People’s Strategies Group, supported by the GLA and part of the Coin Street Festival. The Capital Age Festival was a great afternoon of entertainment from some of London’s most talented older performers.

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It was good to see many local Capital Age events being organised for older people across London. London has a diverse older community who contribute socially, economically and culturally to the city. The Capital Age festival attempts to enhance life through participation in the arts and to challenge negative stereotypes and ageist attitudes. Highlights at the festival included chinese massage, reflexology, yoga demonstrations, craft stalls, food stalls, plus dance and music from a variety of older performers.

New Year’s Eve 2004

I have approved that the GLA, with support from Visit London, initiate procurement for a company to design, manage and deliver an appropriate means to mark midnight on New Year's Eve 2004, based upon the event organised for 2003 for total GLA expenditure of £1m. This contract will be extendable at the option of the GLA to cover New Year's Eve in 2005 and 2006; any exercise of this option will be subject to my further approval.

I have approved that this procurement exercise is conducted via the central purchasing body COI Communications and the GLA will enter into a contract with COI for this purpose.

I have approved this allocation of a total budget of £1m comprising a GLA contribution of £200,000 and funding support of £800,000 from the LDA previously earmarked for Visit London for this purpose. Assurance will be sought from the LDA that this funding will be made available before proceeding with the procurement.

I have agreed that the tender for the event should include a requirement on the successful contractor to contribute an additional £200,000 to the budget, with the support of the GLA sponsorship team, and that this will be supported by the offer of access to a range of benefits that can be delivered between the GLA, Visit London and Transport for London. The GLA £200,000 contribution in 2004 will be met from earmarked reserves set aside for this purpose and the 2004/05 Culture programme budget adjusted.

Black History Month

Following my commitment to the promotion of Black History Month throughout London, I have approved a series of events and initiatives for the 2004 programme, which will commence with a launch event on Friday 1 October.

Three music events celebrating the history and contribution of black music will take place on 7, 13 and 21 October 2004, to be followed by four sub-regional seminars entitled "Rhythm and Business: Supporting the Development of Black Music in London" in February and March 2005.

In addition, "Standing on Their Shoulders: Black Footballers - The Pioneers" a photographic exhibition will be held in the Visitors Centre at City Hall from 1-31 October and also a symposium and a reception will take place at City Hall entitled, "Standing on Their Shoulders: pioneers, past masters and future challenges" in partnership with Kick It Out to mark the start of Anti-Racism in Football Week.

A further symposium, "Black Gold: celebrating sporting women, en-gendering long-term change" will be hosted at City Hall in partnership with the Black Cultural Archives on 6 October.

"Connections", a photographic exhibition in partnership with Black Jewish Forum and the Jewish Council for Racial Equality, which will be hosted in City Hall from 1-31 October. The exhibition will be accompanied by a launch event on 5 October in the Chamber

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On 18 October, "e-Black studies: Empowerment through cyber education", an evening seminar exploring the use of internet and new technologies to support the teaching of African and Caribbean history will be held.

Other events include, "2007: Towards a Strategy for Remembrance", an evening symposium to be held on 27 October, in partnership with my Commission on African and Asian Heritage and UNESCO as part of UNESCO International Year for the Commemoration of the Abolition of the Slave Trade and "First Voice II; Dialogue between the African Union and the African Diaspora in Europe" which will be part of the Black History Month contribution to the London meeting of the European Social Forum

In addition, the hosting of a Black History Month luncheon in partnership with the Arts Council England will take place on 29 September and three walking tours will take place on 4, 5 and 11 October.

I have also approved the waiver of room hire charges/ fees for the use of London's Living Room on 29 September from 1.00-3.00pm; Committee Rooms 4 and 5 on 19 October 6.00-9.30 pm, The Chamber of Tuesday 5 October from 6.00-9.30pm and also on 6 October from 7.00- 9.30pm.

An overall programme budget of £82,000 has been established to cover the management, administration, contingencies, production and marketing costs of the events and initiatives. A contribution of £57,000 from the 2004/05 Culture Initiatives Budget has been allocated towards the overall programme costs and I have approved the appointment of 3Ci Conferences Ltd to provide event administration services for the events and initiatives at a cost of £3,500.

Thames Festival

I have approved a contribution towards the Thames Festival to be held on 18-19 September. The Thames Festival Trust produces this major free London festival that celebrates and encourages a greater understanding and appreciation of the River Thames. Up to 100,000 people are likely to attend over the two-day festival. The festival is cited within my Culture Strategy and is a key deliverable of the objective to promote the cultural potential of London’s waterways.

I have approved £65,000 funding for the Thames Festival from the 2004/05 Cultural Events Budget. This is similar to last year’s contribution and again I support the core objectives of the festival to promote and understand the Thames and its ability to connect London’s diverse communities, geographically and historically. It also serves to work in partnership with schools and other educational institutions to deliver a range of educational initiatives within the festival and to profile the river’s environmental and archaeological significance.

Events

Mayor's Question Time for Schools and Colleges

On 8 July, around 250 young people from over 35 schools and colleges across London came to City Hall to question me on issues that concern them in the capital including transport, crime, the congestion charge, education and environment at an event chaired by broadcaster and journalist, Sheena McDonald.

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The students also had a chance to cast their opinions on issues by electronic keypad voting during this event. This event was jointly organised by the Institute for Citizenship and the GLA and followed on the success of similar event held in May 2003.

Autumn Conferences 2004

I have agreed that the objectives of the GLA’s presence and activities at the Labour Party, Liberal Democrat Party, Conservative Party, TUC and CBI annual conferences in autumn 2004 are to raise the profile and awareness of the work and priorities of the GLA among key stakeholder groups and to promote my strategies and to influence opinion-formers and decision-makers.

The GLA will have an exhibition stand at all five conferences. We will also hold fringe meetings or receptions.

I have agreed that the project management of and budget for the GLA's activities at the annual conferences be transferred from Marketing to the London Stakeholders, Government and Parliamentary Liaison, and Private Sector teams, following consultation with the Assembly.

European Social Forum

I have agreed that the GLA should use the European Social Forum to deliver major elements of the GLA business plan and have allocated resources accordingly.

I have agreed that the GLA contributes a further £330,000 towards the cost of the ESF in London in October 2004, making a total contribution of £480,000 in cash and in kind, subject to a funding agreement and specified conditions. Following a consideration of the consultation response from the Assembly on the proposed virement, I have agreed to the proposed increase of £300,000 to the Project Development Fund Budget

London Schools and the Black Child Conference

Plans for the third London Schools and the Black Child Conference, which will to take place on 11 September, have been announced. Speakers will include Diane Abbott MP, who is organising the conference in association with my office, London Schools Minister Stephen Twigg MP and Trevor Phillips, Chair of the Commission for Racial Equality.

The conference will bring together parents, teachers, students, academics and community activists to report on and celebrate achievements, and to update on progress in addressing the underachievement of children of African-Caribbean heritage in London's schools.

A report from the LDA Education Commission is due to be published to coincide with the conference and the second Achievement Awards will be given out to exceptional students.

Key issues to be discussed include the work of the Department for Education and Skills' Aiming High programme; updates on the Greater London African-Caribbean Parents and Governors Network; and moves to establish a Black Teachers Network in association with the General Teaching Council for England.

Previous London Schools and the Black Child conferences in 2002 and 2003 have been highly successful, with almost 4,000 people attending and members of the public wishing to take part have been advised to register early.

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I have approved expenditure on the third London Schools and the Black Child conference and supporting conference publications. I have also agreed to waive the contracts code to enable to conference to be held at the QEII Conference Centre and a carry-forward of resources totalling £22,000 into 2004/05 to part cover the costs of the conference.

Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Report on attitudes toward Refugees and Asylum Seekers

On 13 July a research report by the Information Centre about Asylum and Refugees in the UK (ICAR) was launched providing evidence about the impact of the media on peoples' attitudes towards refugees and asylum seekers.

I am deeply concerned that the report finds relentless repetition of inaccurate and hostile language in some sections of the press and frequent use of apparently factual but unsubstantiated statements about refugees and asylum seekers that are likely to give rise to fear and concern. As we have seen recently certain members of the media are all too ready to whip up hysteria with inaccurate, biased reporting without a care for damage they might cause to communities throughout the country.

Such unbalanced and inaccurate media images are frequent and powerful and have the potential both to increase community tension, and in some circumstances lead to harassment. However, I welcome the evidence that researchers found that local press are more likely than national press to provide a balanced picture on the issues that affect local people.

The Greater London Authority has responsibility to work towards ensuring that London is a safe and cohesive community and had become increasingly aware that asylum seekers and refugees in London are suffering harassment. Also a number of groups have raised their concerns with the Authority that media coverage following increased interest in asylum and refugee issues was adding to these tensions particularly with regard to national newspapers.

The Information Centre about Asylum and Refugees in the UK (ICAR) who researched and produced Media Image, Community Impact was specifically asked to investigate possible links between media coverage, hostile attitudes to refugees and asylum seekers, community tension and incidents of harassment in London.

Case for London

Strategy Unit London Report

On 21 July, I welcomed the London Report from the Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit, which identifies London's long-term development needs and challenges. The report was published a day after the government had given the go-ahead for Crossrail (the east-west rail link) which will provide the most important improvement to London's transport infrastructure for generations and agreed the East London Line extension.

The Strategy Unit report recognises London's success as an economic powerhouse, attracting worldwide investment and highly skilled labour, but it also notes the particular challenges we face as the UK's only truly world city.

The report recognises the need for investment in London's transport infrastructure following decades of underinvestment. This is something I have lobbied hard for since coming to office.

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Recent developments, including increases in bus funding and the go-ahead for Crossrail as well as agreement being reached on the East London Line, show the thinking reflected in this report is starting to bear fruit but there is a huge amount of work and investment still needed to create a truly effective, integrated transport system.

I fully endorse the report's call for further work to understand the impact of work incentives and the tax and benefits systems in London. These national systems in many cases do not fit the capital's particular needs and circumstances. Research from my office for example shows that many unemployed Londoners who can work would lose out if they did, because out of work benefits do not take account of the disproportionately high costs of living in the capital. I hope the government will act on this to provide a London solution.

The report also makes helpful recommendations for work to improve the social housing stock in the capital, and to better understand the needs of unemployed Londoners.

What underpins these recommendations is the recognition that a great world city of more than seven million people requires substantial infrastructure investment if it is to continue to lead progress and provide a decent quality of life for its residents.

I am encouraged at the approach the Strategy Unit has taken. Addressing the needs of London, the engine-room of the national economy, will not only benefit London itself, but the wider UK as well. I look forward to being fully involved in the work to follow up on the report’s recommendations.

Environment

Climate Change

On 15 July my Deputy Mayor, Nicky Gavron addressed the New Global Vision’ inter-regional conference in Pisa. Speaking alongside Al Gore, Romano Prodi and other international speakers, Nicky said that regional government needs to provide leadership on climate change issues and London was better placed than many cities to lead the way on tackling carbon dioxide emissions.

London must act now on climate change or pay the penalty. National, regional and local leadership working together is vital if we are to respond to the greatest challenge facing the planet this century. In the first four years, we have laid the foundations to achieve our vision of developing London as an exemplary sustainable world city. In our second term we are aiming to move climate change and sustainability centre stage.

This will build on the success of the congestion charge which has reduced carbon dioxide emissions in central London by 19%. My manifesto commitment to a Low Emission Zone will eradicate the most polluting trucks, buses and taxis from London. We are in a pivotal position to show leadership on climate change. The proposed Climate Change Agency would engage with the private sector in delivering energy efficiency improvements in existing buildings and developing local sustainable energy generation projects, particularly those involving renewable sources.

London’s buildings and construction account for 70% of all carbon dioxide emissions in London. The Climate Change Agency for London was included my recent election manifesto and the proposal is now under development. The aims of the Agency are to work with the private sector

21 Item 4 to deliver an enhanced energy infrastructure and to improve energy efficiency in new and existing buildings.

I have now established a project framework to steer this process and have agreed that the resource implications are kept under review and a further request for approval is submitted once these have been more clearly identified.

Recycle for London Campaign

On 8 July, £3.5 million from the London Recycling Fund over the next two years was announced which will ensure the Recycle for London campaign can continue to provide a fantastic boost for recycling in the capital. Nicky Gavron made the announcement as she spread composted chippings from this year’s Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square over Parliament Square to emphasise the importance of recycling and composting.

The main funds for the Recycle for London campaign have been secured in a grant from the London Recycling Fund. The Recycle for London campaign is an advertising campaign aimed at encouraging Londoners to recycle more by highlighting that there are now more services than ever available and providing the information to make it easier for them to do so. The cash will continue to fund London wide advertising, a website and helpline offering advice to Londoners on recycling initiatives in their area and support and resources for London boroughs to assist them in communicating local services to their residents. The campaign will also support a planned national recycling awareness campaign to be launched in the autumn.

In the context of this project, I have approved the engagement of Media Moguls, Soul Advertising and Pawson Media to carry out additional work over the two-year period and have approved a waiver to the contracts code of practise for Team Saatchi, NOP Research, Redhouse Lane and System Associates.

I have also approved the procurement and appointment of agencies for PR and digital marketing and have noted the GLAs approach to working with WRAP to explore possible collaborative working in respect to the helpline service.

Capital Standards Contract

I have approved on behalf of the Capital Standards network, the invitation of tenders for a contract to be place for a new Enforcement Training Programme as part of the Capital Standards Programme during 2004/05. This contract is not to exceed £153,000 in total. The new Training programme will complement the existing Street academy programmes and will provide an advanced training course for implementation of street cleanliness and general environmental condition of public streets and spaces in London.

Waste Management Consultancy

I have approved the expenditure of up to £49,999 for a consultancy service exercise to undertake a Londonwide planning assessment of existing waste management sites and the identification of potential new sites.

London Tree and Woodland Framework

On 28 July, the London Tree and Woodland Framework was launched. The report states that green spaces must be incorporated into new developments because they provide an attractive

22 Item 4 environment for business, leisure and tourism and they benefit our physical health and wellbeing.

There are currently seven million trees in Greater London, which need to be carefully managed. The framework, which was launched by the London Woodland Advisory Group at Wellington Arch, provides a strategic direction for maintaining and enhancing London’s trees and woodlands.

I believe that we all have a responsibility to protect and conserve our trees and woodlands and pass them on to future generations of Londoners, enhanced rather than harmed. I would like to see more community participation in the planning and management of London’s woodlands and I want every Londoner to have access to trees and woodlands. Trees are vital to making London a more attractive, well-designed and green city. I particularly recommend that the checklist in the Framework be used to ensure that the right tree is planted in the right place.

The Framework will guide the planting of the right tree in the right place. It encourages checking if there is a history of planting certain species in an area and choosing areas for planting that are accessible to Londoners.

Other objectives in the London Tree and Woodland Framework include: • Promoting the important contribution of trees and woodlands to London’s sustainable development and regeneration • Safeguarding and improving the current management of London’s existing woodland resource and establishing appropriate new tree and woodland planting for future • Increasing Londoners’ awareness and understanding of their tree and woodland resource, improving accessibility of London’s woodlands and promoting the benefits of trees and woodlands to physical and spiritual health and wellbeing.

Capital Solutions: Guidance for funding and procuring new and emerging waste recovery technology

On 17 August, Capital Solutions guidance was launched, aimed at waste authorities that now have greater financial flexibility to fund their own waste recovery facilities, and this guidance document details the different ways that new technologies can be funded.

My Municipal Waste Management Strategy identifies the Best Practicable Environmental Option for London. It identifies a need to introduce two million tonnes of new waste recovery technology by 2020.

Recycling and waste reduction are my top priorities but we also need to look at and invest in new technologies to recover value from the waste that we cannot recycle. This guide offers important advice for London waste authorities on putting these new technologies into practice.

Since my re-election several other reports have been published which assist in the implementation of my waste strategy. These include a Wider Waste Strategy Background Study, Best Practice on Raising Waste Awareness through doorstepping, and a compilation of London Recycling Fund summaries.

World Clean Air Conference

On 26 August a report was launched at the World Clean Air Conference, published by the Greater London Authority, suggesting that more needs to be done to meet the air quality

23 Item 4 targets set by the Government and EU and that the EU, national governments and local authorities all need to work together to improve air quality.

London is doing as much as it can to meet the Government and the EU’s air quality standards. I am making London a low emission zone and I have produced London’s first air quality strategy, which outlines the measures I am taking in London towards hitting these targets.

I am pleased that air quality experts from around Europe are meeting to share valuable expertise here in London. This needs to be followed up with further action by the EU and governments across Europe. Air pollution is not just the problem of each country individually; air pollution does not respect administrative boundaries.

The report suggests that cities across Europe are doing all they can to improve air pollution. However, there are issues that cities themselves cannot tackle, and require further assistance from national governments and the EU. These include:

• Introducing further and more effective emissions standards for new vehicles • Setting earlier incentives to force energy companies to produce cleaner petrol and diesel, as well as encourage more gas, electric and fuel cell vehicles • Delivering more sustainable transport policy • Government and the EU pressure on the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) to require cleaner aircraft • Further, tighter emissions limits for both industrial plants and countries, to reduce the imported pollution • The availability and stability of grants and other incentives • Allowing funding and other support to be focused on areas with the problems; and • Sufficient funding for local measures

London Heathland Recovery Strategy

On 2 July the London Heathland Working Group warned that if the decline in London’s heathland continues at its current rate, in 20 years only a handful of sites would remain. London’s heathland now makes up a tiny 0.05 per cent of London’s land area (80 hectares of land) and is found in 21 sites across 13 London boroughs.

Vandalism, high volumes of visitors, shortage of money and labour for management, and a lack of understanding about London’s heaths have all contributed to the decline in the capital. Consequently, many of the characteristic plants and animals of heaths and bogs, such as bog asphodel, a type of wild lily and the black darter dragonfly, are now very rare in London.

The London Biodiversity Partnership’s Heathland Working Group aims to save these open spaces from extinction. The group has produced a ‘recovery strategy’ which identifies sites across the capital where there is potential for restoring heathland. It provides costs for the restoration work for each site and details potential sources of funding.

Golf course managers could become key partners in protecting and restoring heaths. Fifteen golf courses in London have some heathland habitat and a further 19 support significant areas of acid grassland where heathland creation could be successful.

Since the end of the eighteenth century London’s heathland has been disappearing, while the city has grown. London’s heathland is important for Londoners’ quality of life. It provides green spaces and recreational areas and supports important plant and animal species. This strategy

24 Item 4 and the work of the London Biodiversity Partnership are essential to the maintenance and improvement of London’s remaining heaths - whether that be the largest area of heathland at Putney Heath and Wimbledon Common or the smallest area on East Sheen Common.

School Visits to London Zoo

I have signed a funding agreement with London Zoo, approving £349, 875 funding for free visits and educational opportunities at London Zoo for 2004/05. I have also agreed a per capita rate of £4.58 for independent schools.

This scheme began in 2001 and last year 66,879 children visited the zoo under the scheme, which was close to the target.

Trafalgar Square

Mandela Statue

Widespread condemnation followed the decision by Westminster Council Planning Committee at its meeting on 1 July, to refuse permission for a statue of Nelson Mandela to be erected on the north terrace of Trafalgar Square.

The decision by Westminster Planning and City Development Committee to refuse permission for the Mandela statue to be placed on the north terrace of Trafalgar Square shows how out of touch it is with public opinion. There is clear support from the public, politicians and public figures both here and overseas.

It was in my election manifesto, on which I have just been re-elected, that I would support placing a statue of Nelson Mandela in the Square and there is a clear mandate for it.

I will now work hard with the sculptor, Ian Walters, and the project sponsors - Wendy Woods, the widow of Donald, and Lord Attenborough - to try and get the statue in place, by appealing to the Secretary of State, John Prescott and we will consider all options to take this forward.

Rt Hon Tony Blair, Rt Hon Charles Kennedy MP, Baroness Chalker, Sir Richard Branson, Lord Haskins, Lord Howe, Lord Owen and Lord Steel are honorary patrons of the Nelson Mandela Statue Fund. Other supporters of the proposal include Diane Abbott MP, who tabled a motion in the House of Commons backing the statue; London Assembly Members Jennette Arnold and Murad Qureshi; Karen Buck MP; Rt Hon Robin Cook MP; Rt Hon Frank Dobson MP; Billy Hayes, General Secretary, Communication Workers Union; Oona King MP; Dave Prentis, General Secretary, Unison; and Rt Hon Chris Smith MP.

The Rev Jesse Jackson sent a message urging Westminster councillors to back plans for a statue of Nelson Mandela in Trafalgar Square, ahead of the Westminster Council planning committee meeting. In his message, sent from Chicago, Rev Jackson affirmed his support for the statue saying that Nelson Mandela's contribution to the cause of world peace, increased understanding across racial divides, his selfless promotion of justice and reconciliation make him a world figure of truly historic proportions and that the placing of his statue in London's Trafalgar Square is a fitting tribute.

Fourth Plinth

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Whilst every effort is being made to secure sponsorship, I have approved an underwrite of up to £195,000 commission of the first Fourth Plinth sculpture, Alison Lapper pregnant, by the artist Marc Quinn to be met from the Authority’s General Reserve in the event of no overall underspend against the Authority’s revenue budget. This will ensure that work can commence on the sculpture without delay. International Hiroshima World Peace Mission Delegation On 13 July, I met with a delegation from the Hiroshima World Peace Mission (HWPM) as a part of their global tour to mark the 60th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on 6 August 1945. The organisation promotes world peace and reconciliation in the 21st century by relating their personal experience of nuclear war and appealing to countries not to repeat the same mistakes. They are campaigning for a nuclear-free world by 2020. It was a privilege to welcome the Hiroshima World Peace Mission (HWPM) to City Hall. I joined the Mayors for Peace in 2001 and continue to fully support the objective of ridding the world of nuclear weapons by 2020. The continuing presence of nuclear weapons makes the world less safe, increases tensions between countries and peoples, and threatens peace. Meeting survivors of the A-bombing, such as Kohji Hosokawa and Chieko Ishihara, underscores how abhorrent these weapons are and how important it is that we realise the goal of a nuclear-free world. City Hall will host the Hiroshima Nagasaki A-Bomb Exhibition in September of this year, where people will be able to come and see the terrible consequences of nuclear weapons. Anybody who has seen this exhibition or spoken to the survivors of these horrific events, as I have, could not fail to be moved. We must all work together to ensure such a horrendous episode never happens again. Amnesty International Meeting I have agreed to waive room fees for a private Amnesty International meeting in Committee Room 5 from 29-31 October 2004. Amnesty International is a worldwide movement of people who campaign for internationally recognised human rights. This meeting will be made up of working group delegates from around the world and as the International Secretariat of Amnesty International is currently undergoing an extensive rebuilding programme, no meeting rooms of a sufficient size are available, therefore I have agreed that they can hold the meeting in City Hall.

European Local Authorities Forum

I will be hosting the European Local Authorities Forum 2004 at City Hall on 15 October. It follows the previous Forums in Florence (2002) and St Denis - Paris (2003). This event brings together cities interested in articulating the demands of civil society to engage in open discussion. The event at City Hall will pave the way for the continued dialogue between cities in Europe and beyond. The GLA organise and deliver the Forum for up to 250 city officials from key European and international cities.

Equalities

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Fairness for All response

I have agreed the response to the White Paper “Fairness for All: a new Commission for Equality and human rights" which sets out the government’s plan’s for a single Equalities Commission. I have previously outlined my opposition to a single equalities commission without the introduction of a parallel Single Equalities Act, and the response builds on my report in March to the Joint Commission on Human Rights.

Section 404 Requirements

I have given a direction to the LDA and TfL requiring these functional bodies in exercising their functions to comply with the requirement on section 404 (2) of the GLA Act 1999 bringing consistency across the whole GLA group.

The GLA Act requires, in section 404, that the GLA, the MPA and LFEPA have regard to the need a) to promote equality of opportunity for all persons irrespective of their race, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation or religion; b) to eliminate unlawful discrimination; and c) to promote good relations between persons of different racial group, religious beliefs and sexual orientation.

I have issued this direction as the LDA and TfL are not included in this section of the Act. The LDA and TfL have already been working to implement these requirements in response to my priorities to promote equalities. However, in order to strengthen the current legal context that determines equality policy and practise in public authorities and to ensure there is greater consistency across the GLA group, I have issued this direction.

Draft Code of Practice on Racial Equality in Employment

The Commission for Racial Equality has published a revised statutory Code of Practise on Racial Equality in Employment for consultation. The revised code updates the original which was compiled 20 years ago and aims to set standards for achieving racial equality in employment. It applies to all employers, private and public of every size and I have agreed a response to the Draft Code of Practise on Racial Equality in Employment. The response to the draft code was also agreed by the Chair of the Assembly’s Business Management and Appointments Committee.

Black Londoners Forum

I have approved the provision of £50,000 for the Black Londoners Forum in the financial year 2004/05 with such funding to be made available on the specific terms of the funding agreement.

The Black Londoners Forum is a unique organisation whose membership consists of black businesses, faith, art, youth, voluntary and community groups, representing over 1700 organisations in London.

The organisation serves as a neutral facilitator for information provision and policy development around a future vision of the capital, quality of life issues, civic pride, leadership and engagement.

This provision follows a similar grant last year, which was monitored and reviewed regularly.

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Budget and Best Value

Best Value Programme

I have noted the progress against the approved Best Value Programme and have agreed revisions to the monitoring arrangements for Best Value Service Improvement Plans. The Assembly’s Budget Committee will consider this report on 7 September.

2003/04 and 2004/05 Grant Settlement

I have noted the possible changes to the revenue support grant in 2003/04 and 2004/05 as a result of census and data changes. I have agreed the formal response to ODPMs consultation questionnaire.

The Assembly’s Budget Committee considered this report on 14 July.

GLA Organisation

GLA Performance report (1 April-30 June 2004)

I have noted the summary report of GLA performance to the end of the last quarter and have noted the financial position and the comments on performance to date. I have also agreed the revisions to 2004/05 business plan actions and target delivery dates.

The final report to the Budget Committee as been finalised with the Director of Business Planning and Regeneration will be considered at the meeting on 7 September.

2003/04 Financial Statements

I have approved the 2003/04 financial statements in accordance with the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2003and signed the statement of accounts. I have also signed the statement on internal control within the 2003/04 financial statements.

Complaints and Comments Policy – 1 October 2003-31 March 2004

I have noted the level of complaints dealt with by the GLA for the six months to 31 March 2004. I have also agreed to the improvements to the complaints procedure and delegated authority to the Executive Director of Finance and Performance to make future amendments to the procedure.

The Assembly’s Business Management and Appointments Committee will consider this report on 8 September.

Corporate Governance Handbook

I have agreed the amendments to the Corporate Governance Handbook and the arrangement for the monitoring framework. I have noted that this report will be considered but the Assembly’s Budget Committee on 8 September.

Taxi Cab Contract

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I have approved the extension of the existing licensed taxi cab service contract for myself, Assembly Members, Executive Directors and one Head of Service for a period of one month from 1-30 September.

I have also approved the commencement of a quotation exercise in accordance with the contracts code of practise for the procurement of a new licensed taxi cab contract. The contract is to be awarded for a period of three years from 1 October 2004 to 30 September 2007 with an option to extend by an additional one year at the discretion of the Authority and the awarding of the contract on completion of the procurement exercise will be made to the most economically advantageous quotation received.

Web Design and Application Development Services Contracts

I have approved the undertaking of an EU compliant procurement process to establish a GLA framework arrangement for the award of contracts for web-design and application development services. A framework arrangement will facilitate the procurement process to recruit suppliers that can offer specialist web design and development services for a range of GLA projects that require a web aspect

I have also agreed that the GLA enter into framework agreements with the successful tenderers following the procurement process referred to above.

PC and Laptop Replacement and Engineering Contracts

I have approved of a mini-competition exercise through all suitably experienced GCAT suppliers to source replacement desktop PCs and laptops at City Hall and to award the contract to the supplier offering the most economically advantageous offer. I have approved the undertaking of a quotation exercise to appoint a suitably qualified consultancy company to provide a team of four IT desktop PC installation engineers for a period of six months, to roll out the new desktop PCs and laptops and to award the contract to the successful consultancy company following such a quotation exercise.

MailMarshall and WebMarshall Contracts

I have approved the awarding of the following contracts, following a competitive tender to AIS Ltd for the supply, installation and maintenance of MailMarshall and WebMarshall products to protect the GLA from email based computer viruses and SPAM mail, and also for the supply, installation and maintenance if the WebMarshall product to protect the GLA from inappropriate/corrupt websites by AIS Ltd

I have also agreed to award contracts, following a competitive tender to HarrierZeuros Ltd for the supply and maintenance of anti-SPAM electronic mail services.

I have agreed a virement of £11,000 from the revenue contribution to capital budget to the Software Licence/ Maintenance and Revenue budget to meet the cost of anti-spam services as outlined above.

Future Arrangements for GLA Integration Unit

I have agreed changes to the membership and operation of the GLA Integration Unit in order to better reflect the development of the unit.

Decision-Making Review

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I have agreed, subject to final amendments in consultation with the Director of Major Projects and Service Delivery and the Director of Business Planning and Regeneration the revisions to the Authority’s decision making framework for the exercise of Mayoral functions, including financial limits and delegations to officers. I am consulting the Assembly on the proposed changes to the procedures for virements in excess of £50,000 and the scheme as finally approved will be reported to the Assembly’s Business Management and Appointments Committee.

When it is finalised the revised framework will be sent to the Assembly for information and to invite it to make similar changes in particular in relation to financial limits in its own decision- making framework.

2004/05 Pay Award

I have agreed to apply the 2004/05 pay award for GLA staff to staff appointed by myself under S67 (1) of the GLA Act. I have confirmed to the Assembly my decision to amend the terms and conditions of employment for posts appointed under S67 (1) (a) and (b), in accordance with this decision.

Knowledge Management Policy

I have approved the proposed GLA knowledge management policy. The policy aims to ensure that knowledge and information are effectively managed and shared, and that knowledge is integrated into key GLA business processes and is appropriately accessible. It also aims to increase knowledge through providing access to information and improving information skills.

The Assembly’s Business Management and Appointments Committee will consider the policy on 8 September and will be invited to adopt it in respect of the functions for which it is responsible.

Oracle Database Software

I have delegated authority to the Executive Director of Corporate Services for the sole purpose of accepting the terms of the agreement between the GLA and Oracle Corporation (UK) for the provision of support to the GLA’s Oracle database software.

GLA Economics I have agreed that GLA Economics conduct a mini-competition under its framework agreement for consultancy services in order to engage a consultant chief economist and provide related data and other services for an initial two-year period (extendable by a further two years) and to make an appointment based on an assessment of the most economically advantageous proposal received. I have also approved the enabling of GLA economics to renew its membership of the International Benchmarking Club (IBC) administered by BAK Basel Economics. Environment Team Review During my first term of office, five statutory strategies were developed relating to environmental issues. The task is now to drive the implementation of the policies contained in the strategies and the nature of the GLA as a strategic authority means it has few direct service delivery powers, in-house capacity or funding resources.

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I have retrospectively agreed to commission OPM to undertake a management review of the Environment Team at a cost of £29,635 plus VAT and to vire funds from Policy and Partnership’s Directorate staffing budget for this consultancy, if necessary. Policy for dealing with vexatious, abusive or discriminatory contact from members of the public I have agreed a corporate policy and guidelines to be issued by all staff in dealing with vexatious, abusive and discriminatory contact from member of the public. I have noted that the Assembly’s Business Management and Appointments Committee will consider this report on 8 September 2004. Faith Equality Scheme I have approved the GLA Faith Equality Scheme, subject to final amendments to be agreed with the Director of Policing and Equalities and have noted that the scheme would be considered by the Assembly's Business Management and Appointment Committee in October in respect of activities for which the Assembly is responsible. London Plan Consultancy Contract

I have approved an OJEU tendering process for the procurement of consultancy services to the SDS team during my next Mayoral term and for the award of a contract following this process. This is in order to assist the shift in focus of work on the London Plan, from preparation to implementation, in particular the development of Sub Regional Development Frameworks and the monitoring and review of the Plan.

E-Government

London Portal

I have confirmed the GLA’s £15,999 additional “priority service outcomes” IEG capital grant to the London Portal project. I have also welcomed the LDA’s financial support to the project and agreed TfL to be asked to report to the LondonConnects Board on the nature of its financial support to the project in the light of my recommendation on IEG grant in February.

I have also agreed a further report be submitted in October on the on-going arrangements for hosting and maintaining the portal with the aim of making the proposals a priority for the 2005/06 GLA group budget.

Updating www.london.gov.uk

I have also approved the development of www.london.gov.uk to meet the needs of the 2012 Olympics bid at a total cost of £70,000 and the proposed funding package for the project including a £20,000 contribution from LondonConnects.

I have approved an exception to the procurement code to engage System Associates to carry out extra development of the Content Management System, which would allow additional functionality to be offered by the www.london.gov.uk website

City Hall

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Accommodation for Assembly Members

I have agreed the future accommodation for Assembly Members, following a review as a result of changes to the make-up of the London Assembly following the election.

FM Contracts

I have approved the awarding of FM contracts at City Hall to the following parties for the next 3 years with an option to extend for a further 2 years (dependent upon business requirements) for the following purposes: • Window & Fabric Maintenance (OCS Ltd); • Horticulture (PHS Greenleaf Ltd) • Pest Control services (Rentokill Initial UK Ltd) • Engineering services (Norlan Management Services Ltd)

In addition, I have approved the awarding of an FM contract to Bywaters Ltd for at least one year as an interim contract for Waste Management at City Hall, extendable for up to two further years until a new pilot project to link innovative technologies for waste management with conventional waste management companies is in place.

Health and Safety Contract

I have approved a competitive tender process, in accordance with the contracts code, to procure heath and safety consultancy services. I have also agreed to appoint health and safety consultancy services on the basis of the most economically advantageous tender received following this tender process. The agreement will be entered into for a period of three years, with the possibility of an extension for one year.

I have retrospectively agreed the current White Young Green contract that expires in September 2004 and the extension of the current contract held by White Young Green for a period of up to 6 months, to allow the tender process to be completed and an appropriate transition to be made between the contracts.

The Londoner

Preprinting Contract

I have approved the awarding of a contract to Express Newspapers to provide preprinting services for The Londoner following written quotations. The contract will be for the seven remaining editions in 2004/05 beginning in September and future editions as required up to the value of £49,999.

Housing

NOTIFY

I have agreed that the GLA will contribute £35,000 to the running costs of NOTIFY - London boroughs temporary accommodation, notification and information system. This will be used for IT support and maintenance, license renewal fees, future development and miscellaneous costs (such as those incurred in the course of providing training to users).

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I have agreed that approval is given for an exception to the contracts code in relation to the engagement of Arbitras to carry out additional development work in relation to the NOTIFY system due to reasons of compatibility in accordance with section 16.7 of the code.

NOTIFY was officially launched on 4 May 2004 and the system has now gone live. NOTIFY has recently been shortlisted for a New Statesman New Media Award.

Private Housing in London Conference

On 9 July Keith Hill MP, Minister of State for Housing and Planning, delivered the keynote speech at a unique conference which brought together representatives from the public sector with key stakeholders in the private sector to discuss and exchange views on the future of private sector housing in London. The outcome of the conference will be fed into the next London Housing Strategy.

Panel discussions and workshops took place with topics including:

• Ensuring high quality management of private rented housing • Making the most efficient use of private sector housing stock – including returning empty homes to use and private sector/housing association leasing • The private rented sector’s contribution to increased housing supply • Working towards decent homes in owner occupied and private rented accommodation, especially for vulnerable people • Housing advice and support for tenants and landlords

The GLA was a major sponsor of ‘London Landlords' Day 2004’ which also took place at the QEII Centre, alongside ‘Private housing in London- the next ten years”. London Landlords’ Day comprised a series of workshops and exhibitions of interest to anyone letting or managing private rented accommodation in London. A wide selection of exhibitors provided products and services to help landlords manage their property and staff from local authorities were on hand to answer questions. Workshops tackled subjects including landlord and tenant law, tax, and leasing schemes.

Off the Streets and Into Work

I have agreed to waive room fees for the use of London's Living Room to allow Off the Streets and Into Work (OSW) to either launch their business plan and programme beyond 2005 (having secured sufficient core and delivery funding) or to celebrate the achievements of OSW during its ten year existence.

OSW is a partnership of agencies that provides employment training, advice and guidance for people in London who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. Their aim is to help people move towards employability through accessing the wide range of services – including IT training, one to one support, supported employment and specialist job shops.

OSW have also bid for EQUAL funding (a programme of the European Social Fund) and will launch their EQUAL programme at this event should they be successful. This event will take place some time during the week commencing 14 March 2005.

Pan-London Providers Group

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I have agreed to waive room fees for the use of London’s Living Room to allow the Pan-London Providers group to launch a major piece of research about the future of hostel provision for homeless people in London. The Pan London Providers Group comprises the directors and chief executives of the major direct access hostel providers in London. This launch will take place some time during week commencing 6 December 2004.

London Plan

Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance on Affordable Homes

On 13 July I issued draft supplementary planning guidance (SPG) on my target that 50 per cent of new homes in London should be affordable. The draft SPG builds on the housing policies in my planning strategy the London Plan and advises boroughs how to contribute to the 50% strategic target, and the London-wide objective that 70% of these affordable homes should be social housing and 30 % intermediate housing.

London urgently needs more affordable home however the achievement of this can be a difficult balancing act. Boroughs need to maximise the provision of affordable homes without deterring overall housing provision and the supply of market housing.

I am pleased at the extent to which boroughs are now adopting the affordable housing policies in my London Plan – and especially welcome the decisions by Southwark and Waltham Forest councils to adopt the target that 50% of new homes should be affordable.

There has been a significant increase in the overall number of homes being built in the capital since my housing policies were introduced. This shows that the challenging requirements for more affordable homes are not deterring the capital’s overall housing market. This draft guidance will help all those involved in the planning and construction of London’s new homes to achieve even more.

New build completions alone have increased from 14,300 in 2000/01 to nearly 18,900 in 2003/4. This demonstrates that affordable housing requirements are not obstructing overall housing output.

The draft SPG draws on extensive experience of actual projects, and is based on discussions with local authorities, developers and other parties. It takes a pragmatic approach that allows for a flexible response to changes in the housing market.

It also includes further guidance on the application of the definitions of affordable housing in the London Plan - and on negotiating affordable housing provision on individual sites, taking into account their development potential.

The draft is issued for consultation for three months with a deadline of 8 October. Responses will be taken into account when the guidance is finalised towards the end of this year.

Planning and Development Control

2004 London Planning Awards

Throughout July entries were welcomed for the second London Planning Awards, following the success of last year’s awards.

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The awards run jointly by the GLA, London First and the Royal Town Planning Institute, recognise outstanding planning achievements by individuals or organisations that have made a special contribution towards London’s future. They also demonstrate the importance that the Royal Town Planning Institute, London First and I give to the role of all planners working in this demanding area.

This year for the first time the judging criteria will specifically reflect the objectives of the London Plan. Last year’s awards were the first of their kind in the capital, and demonstrated the breadth of excellent planning across London. I am sure that this year we will see further outstanding examples of the urban renaissance being implemented in London and of the individuals and teams leading this. With the publication of my London Plan earlier this year we now have a clear spatial and policy framework within which to continue this important work.

Entries were invited for the five categories of awards with an additional special Mayor’s Award for the best overall entry from any category. The categories are:

• best public sector planner or planning organisation (sponsored by GVA Grimley) • best private sector planner or planning organisation (sponsored by Lovells) • best planning built project contributing to London’s future (sponsored by Arup) • best planning conceptual project contributing to London’s future (sponsored by Berwin Leighton Paisner) • best community or partnership initiative (sponsored by St George PLC).

The awards aim to recognise excellence and showcase examples that are leading the urban renaissance in London; raise expectations and standards and promote awareness of good practice and improve the profile of planning and the morale of those involved.

I will be hosting a ceremony at City Hall on 30 November where I will be presenting the awards to the winners.

Government Consultation

I have asked officers to send a response to the Home Office Consultation paper, Burial Law and Policy in the 21st Century: the Need for a Sensitive and Sustainable Approach, on my behalf.

In particular, two key points are emphasised:

• Changes in law to allow the re-use of old graves in London are required as a matter of urgency to enable the burial needs of Londoners to be met equitably and sustainably and to facilitate the restoration and future maintenance of cemeteries and burial grounds. • Research is needed into the possible benefits of alternative administrative arrangements for burials and cremation in London, including a single authority or combined authorities.

Unitary Development Plans

I have asked officers to send letters giving my comments about the following Unitary Development Plan representations:

• Tower Hamlets First Deposit • Lambeth Second Deposit

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• Southwark Second Deposit • Waltham Forest, Pre Inquiry Modifications • Croydon, Pre Inquiry Modifications • Lewisham, Notice to Adopt • Richmond, Notice to Adopt • Harrow, Notice to Adopt • Islington - Building Heights SPG

Planning Decisions (Stage Two referrals)

I have sent letters in response to the following statutory referrals:

Trafalgar House I have written to Croydon Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Plot 5, More London I have written to Southwark Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

299-301 Burdett Road I have written to Tower Hamlets Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Mount Vernon Hospital Eastern Corner I have written to Hillingdon Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Former Hornsey Water Works I have written to Haringey Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Restell Close I have written to Greenwich Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Chessington World of Adventures I have written to Kingston Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Westminster Bridge Roundabout, I have written to Lambeth Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Bermondsey Spa I have written to Southwark Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Abbey Wood School I have written to Greenwich Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

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Northern Triangle, Ashburton Grove I have written to Islington Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Land adjacent to Wembley Stadium I have written to Brent Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Drapers’ Gardens I have written to the Corporation of London stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital I have written to Harrow Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Building 3, North London Business Park I have written to Barnet Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Chelsea Bridge Wharf I have written to Wandsworth Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Former Honeywell Site I have written to Hillingdon Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application

Whipps Cross Hospital I have written to Waltham Forest Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application

Purley Hospital I have written to Croydon Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application

Elm Road, Wembley I have written to Brent Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

2 Farringdon St I have written to Islington Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

York Way I have written to Islington Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Goodmans Field I have written to Tower Hamlets Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

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Stone House I have written to the Corporation of London stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

181-183 Warwick Road I have written to Kensington and Chelsea Council stating that I have decided not to direct refusal of this application.

Planning Decisions (Stage one Applications)

I have asked officers to send letters giving my comments about the following stage one applications:

• Prestolite Factory, Larden Road • Phoenix Vauxhall Premises • The Paragon Site (revised application) • The Quadrant, Regent Street • Crossways Estate • Polytechnic Sports Ground • 43-81 Greenwich High Road • Windmill Trading Estate • Land on West London Railway Land • Stone House • Peruvian Wharf • 31-39 Millharbour • Glasshouse Fields • Delta Wharf • Tavern Quay Car Park • Telstar House • Debden Wharf • Abford House • Wembley Central Way • Royal London Hospital

Stopping Up Orders

I have asked officers to send a letter giving my comments about the following Stopping Up order:

• Hulse Avenue Barking and Dagenham

Informal Reports

I have asked officers to send letters giving my comments about the following informal reports:

• The New White City, Planning brief, Hammersmith & Fulham • Cricklewood/Brent Cross Development Framework (Opportunity Area Framework) • Bromley Common Golf Course (Informal Stage II)

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Decisions made through delegation of power

Olympics Masterplan I authorised the Chief Executive, who may be so authorised as an officer of the authority under section 38(2)(b) of the Act, to exercise my functions under the Town and Country Planning (Mayor of London) Order 2000 in relation to the Lower Lea Valley Olympics and Legacy Planning Application.

I made this decision on the basis that as Mayor of London, I am one of the 3 main stakeholders in the London 2012 bid and therefore have established London 2012 Ltd to prepare a bid on our behalf. I decided that I would delegate my powers with regard to Olympic Planning Applications and avoid any allegation of improper predisposition or having a prejudicial interest.

Copies of my planning decisions and background reports are available on the GLA website.

Key Engagements

I have also attended the following key engagements in the last two months:

• I addressed the Pride Rally on 3 July • I spoke at the “London 2012 and beyond” conference on 5 July • I chaired the quarterly meeting with the Regional Public Health Group on 6 July • I met with Jack McConnell MSP, First Minister of Scotland on 6 July • I attended the Olympic Stakeholder Panel meeting at the House of Commons on 6 July • I attended the Formula One event on Regent Street on 6 July • I met with London 2012 and Visit London on 7 July • I attended the press conference for the launch of the European Council Fatwa and Research on 7 July • I met with the Audit Commission about the Initial Performance Assessment on 8 July • I attended the London Thames Gateway Partnership Board meeting on 8 July • I attended the Paul Daisley Trust reception and dinner on 9 July • I attended the Remembering Ambika event at London Zoo on 11 July • I attended the Muslim Association of Britain Hijab conference on 12 July • I attended the Coin Street 20th Anniversary event on 12 July • I launched the Anne Frank Trust exhibition at City Hall on 13 July • I chaired the LDA Budget Steering Group meeting on 13 July • I met with David Blunkett MP, Home Secretary on 13 July • I met with the London Labour Group of MPs on 13 July • I met with Keith Hill MP, Minister for London on 14 July • I attended the London Resilience Forum meeting on 14 July • I launched the Older People’s Resource Facility on 15 July • I chaired the MPA Budget Steering Group meeting on 15 July • I met with Val Shawcross AM and LFEPA on 15 July • I attended the TfL Remuneration Committee on 2 August • I met with Keith Hill MP and Olympic Borough leaders on 9 August • I attended the Look and Feel Olympic 2012 presentation on 9 August • I met with Michael Snyder, Lord Mayor of London and Peter Derrick, Chamberlain of the Corporation of London on 9 August • I attended the Indian Conference on 1 September

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Ken Livingstone 1 September 2004

Background Documents: Mayoral Decision List Director Decision List

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