Agenda and minutes

Resolved - That the Minutes of the last Court are correctly recorded.

The following Member, lately elected to be of the Common Council, for the Ward mentioned, was introduced to the Court and having, previously made the declaration prescribed by the Promissory Oaths Act, 1868, took her seat, viz:

Name                                                  Ward

Emma Edhem                                     Castle Baynard

The Right Honourable the Lord Mayor reported on her recent overseas visits to India, the Gulf – Bahrain, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Aberdeen and Edinburgh.

Resolved unanimously – That the Members of this Court wish to place on record their appreciation for the pioneering and innovative service that 

Chris Bilsland,

the City of London’s 79^th Chamberlain, has given to the City of London Corporation over the last 7 years.  As Chamberlain, Chris has served in a successive line dating back to 1237, and in accordance with the requirements in ‘A New History of London’, published in 1773, has fulfilled the role with trust and fidelity.

His expertise has extended beyond City financial and ceremonial matters; during his CIPFA Presidency in 2011/12, Chris was a key contributor to the well-received CIPFA think piece ‘After the Downturn’, looking at innovative ways for the public sector to respond to the financial crisis.  He has also recently helped advise the Government on proposals for a Common Investment Vehicle for the London Government Pension Scheme, with the aim of reducing administration costs, increasing returns on investments, and maintaining local accountability and control. 

Chris was instrumental in establishing the City Corporation’s social investment fund, which aims to position London as a global hub in the sector, as well as championing apprenticeships, bringing opportunities to young people in deprived boroughs. 

Chris pioneered the ‘PP2P’ project, which has recently been shortlisted as a finalist in the LGA Award for Business Transformation as well as leading recent outsourcing of the City of London’s IS Service, which is expected to save quite a lot of money over ther next few years. In fact, when it comes to technology, Chris has led by example; always keen to try out the latest IS gadgets, gizmos and Apps!

Under his leadership, the visibility of both Internal Audit and Risk Management has increased and internal governance functions have strengthened.  The City Corporation’s transparency has been improved by publishing

There was no policy statement.

Sundry documents were sealed with the Hospital Seal.

(A list of names, together with those of the nominators, has been separately circulated).

The Chamberlain, in pursuance of the Order of this Court, presented a list of the under-mentioned, persons who had made applications to be admitted to the Freedom of this City by redemption:-

One Member on The City Bridge Trust Committee for a balance of a term to expire in April 2016.

Votes

The Revd. Dr. Martin Dudley                                 22

Stanley Ginsburg J.P., Deputy                                             27

Ann Holmes                                                         14

Andrew Stratton McMurtrie                                    13

Judith Lindsay Pleasance                                     14

John George Stewart Scott, J.P., B.A.(Hons)         14

N.B. It will be necessary to hold a second ballot between The Revd Dr Martin Dudley and Deputy Stanley Ginsburg as no candidate achieved 40% of the votes cast as required by Standing Order No. 10(4)(b).

One Member on The City Bridge Trust Committee for a balance of a term to expire in April 2016.

Votes

The Revd. Dr. Martin Dudley                                 22

Stanley Ginsburg J.P., Deputy                                             27

Ann Holmes                                                         14

Andrew Stratton McMurtrie                                    13

Judith Lindsay Pleasance                                     14

John George Stewart Scott, J.P., B.A.(Hons)         14

N.B. It will be necessary to hold a second ballot between The Revd Dr Martin Dudley and Deputy Stanley Ginsburg as no candidate achieved 40% of the votes cast as required by Standing Order No. 10(4)(b).

Read.

The Court proceeded, in accordance with Standing Order No.10, to ballot on the foregoing vacancy.

The Lord Mayor requested the Chief Commoner and the Chairman of Finance Committee, or their representatives, to be scrutineers of the ballot.

Resolved – That the votes be counted at the conclusion of the Court and the result printed on the Summons for the next meeting.

Nominations of the Court of Aldermen:-

Ian David Luder, B.Sc.(Econ.) Alderman

Alison Jane Gowman, Alderman

William Russell, Alderman

(A) The Court proceeded to appoint three Aldermen on The Honourable The Irish Society for terms of up to three years.

Nominations of the Court of Aldermen:-

Ian David Luder, B.Sc.(Econ.) Alderman

Alison Jane Gowman, Alderman

William Russell, Alderman

Read.

Resolved –That Alderman Ian Luder, Alderman Alison Gowman and Alderman William Russell be appointed on The Honourable The Irish Society for terms of up to three years.

Nominations received:-

John David Absalom, Deputy

Peter Gerard Dunphy  

Christopher Michael Hayward

Wendy Hyde

Gregory Percy Jones, Q.C.

Vivienne Littlechild, J.P.

Oliver Arthur Wynlayne Lodge, T.D, B.Sc.

Hugh Fenton Morris

Elizabeth Rogula

Jeremy Lewis Simons, M.Sc.

Patrick Thomas Streeter

B) The Court proceeded to appoint four Common Councilmen on the Honourable The Irish Society for terms of three years.

Nominations received:-

John David Absalom, Deputy

Peter Gerard Dunphy 

Christopher Michael Hayward

Wendy Hyde

Gregory Percy Jones, Q.C.

Vivienne Littlechild, J.P.

Oliver Arthur Wynlayne Lodge, T.D, B.Sc.

Hugh Fenton Morris

Elizabeth Rogula

Jeremy Lewis Simons, M.Sc.

Patrick Thomas Streeter

Read.

The Court proceeded, in accordance with Standing Order No.10, to ballot on the vacancy.

The Lord Mayor appointed the Chief Commoner and the Chairman of the Finance Committee, or their representatives, to be the scrutineers of the ballot.

Resolved – That the votes be counted at the conclusion of the Court and the result printed in the Summons for the next meeting.

C)        The Court proceeded to nominate the Governor of The Honourable The Irish Society.

Resolved – That Ian Luder, Alderman and Cooper, be nominated as Governor of the Honourable the Irish Society for the ensuing year, it being noted that the Deputy Governor would be appointed by the Court of the Irish Society.

* indicates a Member standing for re-appointment

a) One Member on the Joint Grand Gresham Committee for the balance of a term to expire in April 2016.

Nominations received:-

Kenneth Edwin Ayers, MBE, Deputy

George Marr Flemington Gillon

Michael Hudson

Wendy Hyde

Charles Edward Lord, OBE, J.P.

John George Stewart Scott, J.P., B.A.(Hons)

Patrick Thomas Streeter

Michael Welbank, Deputy

b) Two Members on the Audit and Risk Management Committee, one for the balance of a term to expire in April 2016 and one for the balance of a term to expire in April 2015.

Nominations received:-

Charles Bowman, Alderman

Timothy Russell Hailes, Alderman

Graeme Martyn Smith

c) One Member on the City YMCA for a three year term to expire in March 2017.

Nomination received:-

Andrew Stratton McMurtrie

d) Two Members on the City Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for three year terms to expire in March 2017.

Nominations received:-

*Simon D’Olier Duckworth, D.L.

Jamie Ingham Clark

*Charles Edward Lord, OBE, J.P.

e) Two Members on the City and Metropolitan Welfare Charity for four year terms to expire in March 2018.

Nominations received:-

Henry Nicholas Almroth Colthurst

*William Harry Dove, MBE, J.P., Deputy

Charles Edward Lord, OBE, J.P.

Patrick Thomas Streeter

f) One Member on the Council of Governors of the East London NHS Foundation Trust for the balance of a term to expire in October 2015.

Nomination received:-

Dhruv Patel

g) One Member on the Board of Governors of the Museum of London for the balance of a term to expire in November 2016.

Nominations received:-

Alison Gowman, Alderman

Jeremy Paul Mayhew, M.A, M.B.A

Graeme Martyn Smith

h) Three Members on the Guild Church Council of St Lawrence Jewry for one year terms to expire in March 2015.

Nominations received:-

*Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick

*Simon D’Olier Duckworth,

The Court proceeded to make the following appointments in respect of which the Town Clerk reported that the following nominations had been received: -

* indicates a Member standing for re-appointment

a) One Member on the Joint Grand Gresham Committee for the balance of a term to expire in April 2016.

Nominations received:-

Kenneth Edwin Ayers, MBE, Deputy

George Marr Flemington Gillon

Michael Hudson

Wendy Hyde

Charles Edward Lord, OBE, J.P.

John George Stewart Scott, J.P., B.A.(Hons)

Patrick Thomas Streeter

Michael Welbank, Deputy

Read.

b) Two Members on the Audit and Risk Management Committee, one for the balance of a term to expire in April 2016 and one for the balance of a term to expire in April 2015.

Nominations received:-

Charles Bowman, Alderman

Timothy Russell Hailes, Alderman

Graeme Martyn Smith

Read.

The Court proceeded, in accordance with Standing Order No.10, to ballot on the foregoing vacancies.

The Lord Mayor requested the Chief Commoner and the Chairman of Finance Committee, or their representatives, to be scrutineers of the ballots.

Resolved – That the votes be counted at the conclusion of the Court and the results be printed in the Summons for the next meeting.

c) One Member on the City YMCA for a three year term to expire in March 2017.

Nomination received:-

Andrew Stratton McMurtrie

Read.

Whereupon the Lord Mayor declared Andrew McMurtire to have been appointed on the City YMCA for the balance of a term to expire in March 2017.

d) Two Members on the City Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for three year terms to expire in March 2017.

Nominations received:-

*Simon D’Olier Duckworth, D.L.

Jamie Ingham Clark

*Charles Edward Lord, OBE, J.P.

Read.

Edward Lord sought and was granted leave to withdraw from the ballot.

Whereupon the Lord Mayor declared Simon Duckworth and

Patrick Streeter asked a question of the Chairman of the City Side of the Joint Grand Gresham Committee regarding will of Sir Thomas Gresham which charged his Trustees with three tasks; namely the maintenance of Gresham College, the funding of Almshouses  and the support and help for prisoners. He commented that the Trust honoured the first two but not the third and he asked whether the Trustees would be taking steps to correct this.

In reply the Chairman detailed the history of this matter and specifically referred to the will which provided that £10 be paid quarterly to the five debtor prisons which were then located in the City "the relief of the poor persons and prisoners in the prisons and places called Newgate, Ludgate, the Kings Bench, the Marshalsea and Counter (Wood Street)". He reported that these institutions no longer existed and the purpose of assisting poor persons in the debtors’ prisons became redundant as a result of the Debtors Act 1869 and subsequent changes to the laws relating to bankruptcy and insolvency. He added that the five debtors’ prisons closed variously in or about 1727, 1760, 1880 and 1902 and this element of the bequest was therefore believed to have lapsed. In addition, if any remnant of the bequest remained, it was believed to have been subsumed under the general charitable grants programmes allocated by Finance Grants Sub-Committee (and its predecessors) from City’s Cash funds which amount to some £743,000 per annum.

In response to a supplementary question from Patrick Streeter, the Chairman agreed to discuss any further details with Mr Streeter after the meeting.

In response to a supplementary question from Brian Mooney, the Chairman agreed to look into a possible donation to a charity concerned with the assistance of prisoners or

There were no motions.

There was no report.

(Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick)

A     City Fund – 2014/15 Budget Report and Medium Term Financial Strategy including 

Non Domestic Rates and Council Taxes for the Year 2014/15

We have considered as to the Non-Domestic Rates and Council Taxes to be levied to meet the City Fund budget requirement during the year ensuing including the proposal to levy:

·                an unchanged premium multiplier of 0.004 on the Non-Domestic Rate and Small Business Rate multipliers to enable the City to continue to support the City of London Police, security and contingency planning activity within the Square Mile at an enhanced level; and

·                an unchanged Council tax of £857.31 for a Band D property (excluding the GLA precept).

We submit a printed and circulated report thereon:  City Fund – 2014/15 Budget Report and Medium Term Financial Strategy.

We recommend that the report be agreed to and that the Court do pass a Resolution in the following terms:-

Overall Financial Framework - Revenue

1.         Approve the overall financial framework and the revised Medium Term Financial Strategy for the City Fund noting, in particular, that work continues on the Service Based Review to identify savings options to eliminate the deficits forecast from 2016/17 as a result of the significant and continuing Government funding cuts.

2.         Approve the City Fund Revenue Budgets.

3.         Note the following assumptions:

·         the 2% efficiency savings required over the two year period 2013/14 and 2014/15 have been included alongside procurement savings;

·         an allowance of 2% a year has been included for pay and prices across the forecast period (to 2017/18);

·         a neutral position with regard to the Government’s system of Business Rates retention introduced on 1 April 2013 – i.e. no speculation as to growth or reduction;

·         a reduction in the anticipated interest rate on cash balances from 1.5% to the 0.75% currently being achieved; and

FINANCE COMMITTEE

(Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick)

18 February 2014

A)     City Fund – 2014/15 Budget Report and Medium Term Financial Strategy including Non Domestic Rates and Council Taxes for the Year 2014/15

We have considered as to the Non-Domestic Rates and Council Taxes to be levied to meet the City Fund budget requirement during the year ensuing including the proposal to levy:

·              an unchanged premium multiplier of 0.004 on the Non-Domestic Rate and Small Business Rate multipliers to enable the City to continue to support the City of London Police, security and contingency planning activity within the Square Mile at an enhanced level; and

·              an unchanged Council tax of £857.31 for a Band D property (excluding the GLA precept).

We submit a printed and circulated report thereon:  City Fund – 2014/15 Budget Report and Medium Term Financial Strategy.

We recommend that the report be agreed to and that the Court do pass a Resolution in the following terms:-

Overall Financial Framework - Revenue

1.         Approve the overall financial framework and the revised Medium Term Financial Strategy for the City Fund noting, in particular, that work continues on the Service Based Review to identify savings options to eliminate the deficits forecast from 2016/17 as a result of the significant and continuing Government funding cuts.

2.         Approve the City Fund Revenue Budgets.

3.         Note the following assumptions:

·        the 2% efficiency savings required over the two year period 2013/14 and 2014/15 have been included alongside procurement savings;

·        an allowance of 2% a year has been included for pay and prices across the forecast period (to 2017/18);

·        a neutral position with regard to the Government’s system of Business Rates retention introduced on 1 April 2013 – i.e. no speculation as to growth or reduction;

·        a reduction in the anticipated interest rate on cash balances

FINANCE COMMITTEE

(Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick)

18^th February 2014

(B)    Revenue and Capital Budgets 2013/14 and 2014/15

We submit a printed and circulated report which summarises the revenue and capital budgets  for each of the City’s three main funds,  City Fund, City’s Cash and Bridge House Estates together with the budgets for central support services within Guildhall Administration (which initially ‘holds’ such costs before these are wholly recharged).  The report accompanies the Summary Budget Book which includes all the City’s budgets at a summary level in a single document.  The Summary Budget Book is available in the Members’ Reading Room, and on the City Corporation’s website. Further copies can be provided on request.

Having considered the circulated report we recommend approval of the revenue  and  capital  budgets  for  City’s  Cash,  Bridge  House  Estates  and Guildhall Administration for the financial year 2014/154 (the budgets for City Fund having already been considered under part A above).

18^th February 2014

(B)   Revenue and Capital Budgets 2013/14 and 2014/15

We submit a printed and circulated report which summarises the revenue and capital budgets  for each of the City’s three main funds,  City Fund, City’s Cash and Bridge House Estates together with the budgets for central support services within Guildhall Administration (which initially ‘holds’ such costs before these are wholly recharged).  The report accompanies the Summary Budget Book which includes all the City’s budgets at a summary level in a single document.  The Summary Budget Book is available in the Members’ Reading Room, and on the City Corporation’s website. Further copies can be provided on request.

Having considered the circulated report we recommend approval of the revenue  and  capital  budgets  for  City’s  Cash,  Bridge  House  Estates  and Guildhall Administration for the financial year 2014/154 (the budgets for City Fund having already been considered under part A above).

Read and agreed to.

(Mark John Boleat)

(Mark John Boleat)

(A) London Councils Grants Scheme 2014/15 – Levy on the London Local Authorities Report of action taken under urgency procedures

13 February 2014

This report advises Members of two decisions; one taken by the Court as a matter of urgency and the other by the Policy and Resources Committee, pursuant to Standing Order No.19, relating to the London Councils Grants Scheme (“the Scheme”). The Scheme enables the City of London Corporation and the London Boroughs to share the cost of making grants to those voluntary organisations that operate in more than one of the Local Authorities’ areas.

The budget for the London Councils Grants Scheme, and the City Corporation’s contribution to the Scheme, is considered on an annual basis.  Last year, in order to simplify the approvals process, the Court of Common Council delegated the approval of the City Corporation’s contribution and its total expenditure for the scheme, to the Policy and Resources Committee.  On 23 January 2014, the Policy and Recourses Committee approved the total amount of expenditure to be incurred in 2014/15 under the London Council Grant Scheme (£10m) and the City Corporation’s subscription for 2014/15 (£8,233).

A further decision was then required, as the Court of Common Council is the designated body responsible for issuing the levies to all the Constituent Local Authorities for their contributions to the Scheme. A decision could not be taken until the total expenditure for the Scheme had been agreed by at least 2/3rds of the Constituent Councils and not before 1 February 2014.  

On 27th January 2014, London Councils advised us that the budget had been approved by over two thirds of the Constituent Councils. Following this confirmation, the City Corporation, as levying body, was required to issue the levies before the statutory deadline of 15 February 2014.

(Mark John Boleat)

(A) London Councils Grants Scheme 2014/15 – Levy on the London Local Authorities Report of action taken under urgency procedures

13 February 2014

This report advises Members of two decisions; one taken by the Court as a matter of urgency and the other by the Policy and Resources Committee, pursuant to Standing Order No.19, relating to the London Councils Grants Scheme (“the Scheme”). The Scheme enables the City of London Corporation and the London Boroughs to share the cost of making grants to those voluntary organisations that operate in more than one of the Local Authorities’ areas.

The budget for the London Councils Grants Scheme, and the City Corporation’s contribution to the Scheme, is considered on an annual basis.  Last year, in order to simplify the approvals process, the Court of Common Council delegated the approval of the City Corporation’s contribution and its total expenditure for the scheme, to the Policy and Resources Committee.  On 23 January 2014, the Policy and Recourses Committee approved the total amount of expenditure to be incurred in 2014/15 under the London Council Grant Scheme (£10m) and the City Corporation’s subscription for 2014/15 (£8,233).

A further decision was then required, as the Court of Common Council is the designated body responsible for issuing the levies to all the Constituent Local Authorities for their contributions to the Scheme. A decision could not be taken until the total expenditure for the Scheme had been agreed by at least 2/3rds of the Constituent Councils and not before 1 February 2014.  

On 27th January 2014, London Councils advised us that the budget had been approved by over two thirds of the Constituent Councils. Following this confirmation, the City Corporation, as levying body, was required to issue the levies before the statutory deadline of 15 February 2014.

20 February 2014

London Councils: London Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) Collective Investment Vehicle

Following detailed work which has been undertaken by London Councils on the potential for more collaboration between a number of London boroughs and the City of London Corporation on the management and investment of pension funds, we have considered and agreed a number of recommendations relating to the establishment of a London Local Government Pensions Scheme (LGPS) Collective Investment Vehicle. The recommendations are also supported by your Finance Committee.

London Councils appointed expert legal and financial services advisors to develop a robust business case and a formal proposal. London Councils Leaders’ Committee has since considered the outcome of this and agreed to make recommendations to all London boroughs (and the City Corporation) to proceed with establishing an Authorised Contractual Scheme (ACS), and the ACS Operator, which is the company that would manage it. It should be noted that the proposals outlined are based on voluntary participation, and the decision as to whether to invest in the ACS would be made later in the year. It should be noted that nothing proposed in this matter locks the City Corporation into any level of commitment to invest at this point.

We submit a printed and circulated report thereon recommending that the Court supports the next steps in the establishment of a London LGPS Collective Vehicle. All London local authorities are being asked to respond by 14 April 2014 or before the day of the local government elections (22 May 2014).

B) London Councils: London Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) Collective Investment Vehicle

Following detailed work which has been undertaken by London Councils on the potential for more collaboration between a number of London boroughs and the City of London Corporation on the management and investment of pension funds, we have considered and agreed a number of recommendations relating to the establishment of a London Local Government Pensions Scheme (LGPS) Collective Investment Vehicle. The recommendations are also supported by your Finance Committee.

London Councils appointed expert legal and financial services advisors to develop a robust business case and a formal proposal. London Councils Leaders’ Committee has since considered the outcome of this and agreed to make recommendations to all London boroughs (and the City Corporation) to proceed with establishing an Authorised Contractual Scheme (ACS), and the ACS Operator, which is the company that would manage it. It should be noted that the proposals outlined are based on voluntary participation, and the decision as to whether to invest in the ACS would be made later in the year. It should be noted that nothing proposed in this matter locks the City Corporation into any level of commitment to invest at this point.

We submit a printed and circulated report thereon recommending that the Court supports the next steps in the establishment of a London LGPS Collective Vehicle. All London local authorities are being asked to respond by 14 April 2014 or before the day of the local government elections (22 May 2014).

Read and agreed to.

(George Marr Flemington Gillon, Chief Commoner)

15 January 2014, 12 February 2014

Applications for the Use of Guildhall

In accordance with the arrangements approved by the Court on 21 June 2001 for the approval of applications for the use of Guildhall, we now inform the Court of the following applications which have been agreed to:-

15 January 2014, 12 February 2014

Applications for the Use of Guildhall

In accordance with the arrangements approved by the Court on 21 June 2001 for the approval of applications for the use of Guildhall, we now inform the Court of the following applications which have been agreed to:-

12 February 2014

City of London Festival

It is proposed thatthe City hosts a pre-concert reception on the occasion of the performance of a ‘Commonwealth Concert’ at Guildhall on Monday, 14^th July as part of the 2014 City of London Festival.

The City of London Festival was founded in 1962 as an independent trust with the aim of revitalising the cultural life of the City and is supported equally by the business community, the City of London Corporation and the general public. The first Festival programme ran over 8 days with both indoor and outdoor activities. Since then each year the City of London Festival has run an artistic programme incorporating a range of musical and visual arts performances and using the City’s unique buildings and outdoor spaces.

The Commonwealth Concert performance is a key strand of this year’s Festival’s activity and will form part of the contribution to the 2014 Commonwealth Games’ cultural programme - a nationwide calendar of cultural events to help “ensure the Games touch every part of the nation, as part of a year-long countdown.”  Guests at the reception will include City representatives together with Commonwealth political and diplomatic contacts.

We recommend that hospitalitybe granted and that arrangements are made under the auspices of the Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee; the cost to be met from City’s Cash, within the approved cost parameters.

(This will be a Committee event.)

12 February 2014

City of London Festival

It is proposed thatthe City hosts a pre-concert reception on the occasion of the performance of a ‘Commonwealth Concert’ at Guildhall on Monday, 14^th July as part of the 2014 City of London Festival.

The City of London Festival was founded in 1962 as an independent trust with the aim of revitalising the cultural life of the City and is supported equally by the business community, the City of London Corporation and the general public. The first Festival programme ran over 8 days with both indoor and outdoor activities. Since then each year the City of London Festival has run an artistic programme incorporating a range of musical and visual arts performances and using the City’s unique buildings and outdoor spaces.

The Commonwealth Concert performance is a key strand of this year’s Festival’s activity and will form part of the contribution to the 2014 Commonwealth Games’ cultural programme - a nationwide calendar of cultural events to help “ensure the Games touch every part of the nation, as part of a year-long countdown.”  Guests at the reception will include City representatives together with Commonwealth political and diplomatic contacts.

We recommend that hospitalitybe granted and that arrangements are made under the auspices of the Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee; the cost to be met from City’s Cash, within the approved cost parameters.

(This will be a Committee event.)

Read and agreed to.

12 February 2014

Global Pound Conference

It is proposed thatthe City hosts a reception on 29^th October 2014 at the conclusion of a one day Introductory Conference which will be the launch for the Global Pound Conference in 2015. This is planned to take place in some 15 cities around the world on the same day in 2015 linked by live webinar. The aim will be to identify and promote changes in methodology in relation to the resolution of cross-border disputes.

The first Pound Conference took place in 1976 named in honour of Professor Roscoe Pound, an American law professor and champion of legal reform. The conference is regarded as providing the impetus for major changes in the American justice system, and in particular the start of modern Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). The International Mediation Institute (based in The Hague) and the International Dispute Resolution Group (based in London) are co-hosting a second Pound Conference on ADR in 2015.

The event should provide a high-level networking opportunity for conference delegates and City business representatives specialising in international dispute resolution, mediation and arbitration. The guest list will also include parliamentarians and Members with relevant business interests.

We recommend that hospitalitybe granted and that arrangements are made under the auspices of the Policy and Resources Committee; the cost to be met from City’s Cash, within the approved cost parameters.

(This will be a Committee event.)

12 February 2014

Global Pound Conference

It is proposed thatthe City hosts a reception on 29^th October 2014 at the conclusion of a one day Introductory Conference which will be the launch for the Global Pound Conference in 2015.This is planned to take place in some 15 cities around the world on the same day in 2015 linked by live webinar. The aim will be to identify and promote changes in methodology in relation to the resolution of cross-border disputes.

The first Pound Conference took place in 1976 named in honour of Professor Roscoe Pound, an American law professor and champion of legal reform. The conference is regarded as providing the impetus for major changes in the American justice system, and in particular the start of modern Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). The International Mediation Institute (based in The Hague) and the International Dispute Resolution Group (based in London) are co-hosting a second Pound Conference on ADR in 2015.

The event should provide a high-level networking opportunity for conference delegates and City business representatives specialising in international dispute resolution, mediation and arbitration. The guest list will also include parliamentarians and Members with relevant business interests.

We recommend that hospitalitybe granted and that arrangements are made under the auspices of the Policy and Resources Committee; the cost to be met from City’s Cash, within the approved cost parameters.

(This will be a Committee event.)

Read and agreed to.

12 February 2014

Heritage Gallery Opening

It is proposed thatthe City hosts an early evening reception to launch the opening of the Guildhall Art Gallery’s Heritage Gallery on Thursday, 11th September 2014.

The Gallery will provide a new and fitting space to display some of the most significant and internationally important items from the City’s documentary collections. These include the 1215 charter from King John granting the City the right to elect its own Mayor, the City’s own copy of Magna Carta dating from 1297 and the 1613 Shakespeare Deed.

As this initiative coincides with the 800^th anniversary in 2015 of the sealing of Magna Carta, the guest list will include representatives from the Magna Carta 800^th Committee, other London Councils and the arts and cultural sector.

We recommend that hospitalitybe granted and that arrangements are made under the auspices of the Policy and Resources Committee and the Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee; the cost to be met from City’s Cash, within the approved cost parameters.

(This will be a Committee event.)

12 February 2014

Heritage Gallery Opening

It is proposed thatthe City hosts an early evening reception to launch the opening of the Guildhall Art Gallery’s Heritage Gallery on Thursday, 11th September 2014.

The Gallery will provide a new and fitting space to display some of the most significant and internationally important items from the City’s documentary collections. These include the 1215 charter from King John granting the City the right to elect its own Mayor, the City’s own copy of Magna Carta dating from 1297 and the 1613 Shakespeare Deed.

As this initiative coincides with the 800^th anniversary in 2015 of the sealing of Magna Carta, the guest list will include representatives from the Magna Carta 800^th Committee, other London Councils and the arts and cultural sector.

We recommend that hospitalitybe granted and that arrangements are made under the auspices of the Policy and Resources Committee and the Culture, Heritage and Libraries Committee; the cost to be met from City’s Cash, within the approved cost parameters.

(This will be a Committee event)

Read and agreed to.

(John Alfred Barker, OBE Deputy)

30 January 2014

Pay Policy Statement 2014/15

The Localism Act 2011 requires the City of London Corporation to prepare and publish a Pay Policy Statement each year setting out its approach to pay for the most senior and junior members of staff. This must be agreed by the full Court of Common Council.

 The Court approved the Corporation’s first Pay Policy Statement in January 2012 and the current version was approved this time last year. This was published by 31^st March 2013. A draft Pay Policy Statement for 2014/15, which has been separately circulated, has been approved by both the Establishment and the Policy and Resources Committees and, with your agreement, will be published by 31^st March 2014.

We submit a printed and circulated report thereon recommending that the Court agree the separately circulated draft Pay Policy Statement for 2014/15 to ensure that the City Corporation meets its requirements under the Localism Act 2011.

(John Alfred Barker, OBE Deputy)

30 January 2014

Pay Policy Statement 2014/15

The Localism Act 2011 requires the City of London Corporation to prepare and publish a Pay Policy Statement each year setting out its approach to pay for the most senior and junior members of staff. This must be agreed by the full Court of Common Council.

 The Court approved the Corporation’s first Pay Policy Statement in January 2012 and the current version was approved this time last year. This was published by 31^st March 2013. A draft Pay Policy Statement for 2014/15, which has been separately circulated, has been approved by both the Establishment and the Policy and Resources Committees and, with your agreement, will be published by 31^st March 2014.

We submit a printed and circulated report thereon recommending that the Court agree the separately circulated draft Pay Policy Statement for 2014/15 to ensure that the City Corporation meets its requirements under the Localism Act 2011

Read and agreed to.

(John Tomlinson BA, MSc, Deputy)

20 January 2014

Animal Reception Centre – Heathrow Airport: Annual Review of Charges

It is necessary to submit periodic recommendations to the Court for an increase to be applied to the Schedule of Charges in respect of services provided at the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC), for the forthcoming financial year 2014/2015.

The Byelaws, incorporating a new schedule of charges for the services provided, can be found in Appendix A to a separately printed and circulated report and we recommend approval thereof; the Comptroller and City Solicitor being instructed to seal the Byelaws accordingly.

(John Tomlinson BA, MSc, Deputy)

20 January 2014

Animal Reception Centre – Heathrow Airport: Annual Review of Charges

It is necessary to submit periodic recommendations to the Court for an increase to be applied to the Schedule of Charges in respect of services provided at the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC), for the forthcoming financial year 2014/2015.

The Byelaws, incorporating a new schedule of charges for the services provided, can be found in Appendix A to a separately printed and circulated report and we recommend approval thereof; the Comptroller and City Solicitor being instructed to seal the Byelaws accordingly.

Read and agreed to.

(The Reverend Dr Martin Dudley)

14 June 2013

The proposed federation of City of London Academy (Southwark) and Redriff Primary Academy to form a Multi-Academy Trust

It is proposed that the Court approves the formation of a Multi-Academy Trust between the City of London Academy Southwark and Redriff Primary Academy. The schools are close to signing the final agreements and will submit them to the Secretary of State for Education. It requires the approval of the Court of Common Council to enter in to the arrangement and agree to extend the City of London’s academy sponsorship to Redriff Primary Academy. 

The potential educational benefits identified from such an arrangement include improving transition from primary to secondary education, raising standards in teaching and learning, and providing continuity of provision for vulnerable pupils and their families. The proposal to establish a Multi-Academy Trust is in line with government policy on education which promotes collaboration between schools as a means of securing improvements in educational standards. The proposal supports the City Corporation’s corporate objectives of enhancing services and outcomes for children and young people in the City and City fringes.

The Community and Children’s Services Committee has been monitoring the progress of discussions between the Academies and the Department for Education. To strengthen the case for federation a business case, risk register and arrangements for governance have been developed. The necessary consultations have taken place, including with the London Borough of Southwark who agree with the proposals. As the Committee responsible for the City Academy schools, the Community and Children’s Services Committee agreed to the development of the proposal in June 2013 and, following receipt of further information on the business case, due diligence checks, the governance arrangements and the financial implications, approved the agreement in principle.

We submit a printed and circulated

(The Reverend Dr Martin Dudley)

14 June 2013

The proposed federation of City of London Academy (Southwark) and Redriff Primary Academy to form a Multi-Academy Trust

It is proposed that the Court approves the formation of a Multi-Academy Trust between the City of London Academy Southwark and Redriff Primary Academy. The schools are close to signing the final agreements and will submit them to the Secretary of State for Education. It requires the approval of the Court of Common Council to enter in to the arrangement and agree to extend the City of London’s academy sponsorship to Redriff Primary Academy. 

The potential educational benefits identified from such an arrangement include improving transition from primary to secondary education, raising standards in teaching and learning, and providing continuity of provision for vulnerable pupils and their families. The proposal to establish a Multi-Academy Trust is in line with government policy on education which promotes collaboration between schools as a means of securing improvements in educational standards. The proposal supports the City Corporation’s corporate objectives of enhancing services and outcomes for children and young people in the City and City fringes.

The Community and Children’s Services Committee has been monitoring the progress of discussions between the Academies and the Department for Education. To strengthen the case for federation a business case, risk register and arrangements for governance have been developed. The necessary consultations have taken place, including with the London Borough of Southwark who agree with the proposals. As the Committee responsible for the City Academy schools, the Community and Children’s Services Committee agreed to the development of the proposal in June 2013 and, following receipt of further information on the business case, due diligence checks, the governance arrangements and the financial implications, approved the agreement in principle.

We submit a printed and circulated

(Charles Edward Lord OBE, JP)

31^st January 2014

Composition of the Standards Committee

Your Committee seeks approval to revise the composition of the Standards Committee with a small increase in the number of Common Councilmen appointments.  The revised membership would result in an increase from five to seven Common Councilmen appointed to serve on the Committee and would ensure that quorate sub-committees of the Standards Committee, for the purposes of considering complaints and requests for dispensations, could be formed whilst avoiding potential conflicts of interest amongst Members.

The current composition of the Committee, which includes 5 Common Councilmen, 1 Alderman, 4 Co-opted Members [and 3 Independent Persons]) has led to some difficulties in recent months in respect of convening sub-committees where Members’ conflicts of interest and date availability have inhibited the timely convening of quorate meetings. 

We therefore recommend that the Standards Committee’s composition be revised to include 7 Common Councilmen, 1 Alderman, 4 Co-opted Members [and 3 Independent Persons].

(Charles Edward Lord OBE, JP)

31^st January 2014

Composition of the Standards Committee

Your Committee seeks approval to revise the composition of the Standards Committee with a small increase in the number of Common Councilmen appointments.  The revised membership would result in an increase from five to seven Common Councilmen appointed to serve on the Committee and would ensure that quorate sub-committees of the Standards Committee, for the purposes of considering complaints and requests for dispensations, could be formed whilst avoiding potential conflicts of interest amongst Members.

The current composition of the Committee, which includes 5 Common Councilmen, 1 Alderman, 4 Co-opted Members [and 3 Independent Persons]) has led to some difficulties in recent months in respect of convening sub-committees where Members’ conflicts of interest and date availability have inhibited the timely convening of quorate meetings. 

We therefore recommend that the Standards Committee’s composition be revised to include 7 Common Councilmen, 1 Alderman, 4 Co-opted Members [and 3 Independent Persons].

Read and agreed to.

“That the public be excluded from the meeting for the following items of business below on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act, 1972:-

A) recommendations of the Board of Governors of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama on its Capital/Supplementary Revenue Programme; and

B) action taken under urgency procedures approving recommendations of the Barbican Centre Board on the lease of Exhibition Hall 1 at the Barbican Centre.

Resolved – that the public be excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12 A of the Local Government Act, 1972.

Summary of exempt items considered whilst the public were excluded

The Court:-

A) approved the recommendations of the Board of Governors of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama on its Capital/Supplementary Revenue Programme; and

B) agreed the action taken under urgency procedures approving recommendations of the Barbican Centre Board on the lease of Exhibition Hall 1 at the Barbican Centre.