2 July 2010
The question of how to govern London, which has long challenged policy-makers, was the theme discussed within this half-day event. As London celebrated exactly ten years since the creation of the Mayor and Assembly (on 3 July), this timely seminar set out to debate questions of lasting significance to the present and future of London governance.
Its purpose was to examine how the Greater London Authority, including the office of Mayor, has evolved and also how the policies pursued by successive mayors have influenced the development of the capital. Two wider concerns addressed were London's dominant position within the UK economy and the frequency with which the city's government is reformed; and the proposals for the reform of local government to enhance the GLA's powers recently set out by the new government.
The events that contributed to the creation of the GLA, the setting up of the Mayor's Office and the Assembly, and the GLA's operation in the period since 2000 were all considered during the course of the afternoon. Chaired by LSE Emeritus Professor George W. Jones, presentations were given by prominent members of both the government and other stakeholder associations, including a past Minister for London and Mayor, as well as past and present members of the GLC and GLA. These were:
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Stephen Hammond, MP, PPS to Eric Pickles
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Ken Livingstone, Leader of the GLC, 1981-1986 and Mayor of London, 2000-2008
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Nick Raynsford, MP, former Minister for London
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Anne Sofer, Member, Inner London Education Authority, 1973-86
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Tony Travers, LSE London, London School of Economics
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Mike Tuffrey, LAM, Member, Greater London Council, 1985-86
LSE London's Tony Travers and Christine Whitehead produced a background discussion paper, included in the contents section of this page, which reviews some of the key issues that were brought forth during the day.
Beyond a series of questions and discussion sessions, the well-attended event was followed by a drinks reception.
For further details about this event, please contact: lselondon@lse.ac.uk
