Agenda and minutes

Venue: Guildhall

Contact: Sacha Than 

Items
No. Item

1.

Apologies

Minutes:

The apologies of those Members unable to attend this meeting of the Court were noted.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 1.

2.

Declarations by Members under the Code of Conduct in respect of any items on the agenda

Minutes:

There were no declarations.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 2.

3.

Minutes pdf icon PDF 198 KB

To agree the minutes of the meeting of the Court of Common Council held on 10 January 2019.

 

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 3.

Minutes:

Resolved – That the Minutes of the last Court are correctly recorded, subject to the following amendments:-

 

  • Under Item 3 on page 15 in respect of the tellers listed, Mr Upton be listed as the Teller for the Negative side, and on behalf of the Affirmative. Equally, Mr Colthurst’s be listed as Teller for the Affirmative Side and on behalf of the Negative.

 

  • On the same page, Alderman Keaveny to be listed as Sheriff in place of Alderman Hailes.

 

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 3.

4.

Resolutions on Retirements, Congratulatory Resolutions, Memorials.

Minutes:

Resolved unanimously – That the gratitude of this Court be extended to:-

 

Matthew Charles Falco Lombardi Richardson

 

First elected to the Court of Common Council in 2009 representing the Ward of Coleman Street, and later becoming an Alderman for the Ward of Billingsgate in 2012, we thank him for his dedicated service to the City Corporation and the City of London over the past ten years.

 

During his time at the City Corporation Matthew served on a wide range of Committees which included the Port Health and Environmental Services Committee, Planning and Transportation Committee and the Board of Governors of the City of London Freemen’s School where he actively represented the views of businesses and residents.

 

It can be said that his dedication to the City Corporation was such that he even held his marriage at St Lawrence Jewry and the reception here at Guildhall.

 

A barrister who was called to the Bar by the Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn and has served as a Director of several financial companies. Matthew was a valued Member of the Finance Committee and its various sub-committees, including the Digital Services Sub Committee. It was in this sphere that the City Corporation benefited from his extensive legal and financial experience, particularly in areas such as Cyber Crime and insurance, and for this we express our gratitude.

 

Matthew’s attendance record at Committee was at times possibly sparse, it could even be said erratic, but we always looked forward to his contributions when he did attend which were generally incisive.

 

This Honourable Court therefore extends to Matthew its sincerest thanks for his endeavours over the past several years, as well as its very best wishes for him and Erica for the future.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 4.

5.

Mayoral Visits

The Right Honourable The Lord Mayor to report on his recent overseas visits.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 5.

Minutes:

The Right Honourable The Lord Mayor reported on his recent visits to the Gulf, the World Economic Forum at Davos, Asia and Scotland.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.

6.

Policy Statement

To receive a statement from the Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 6.

Minutes:

There was no statement.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.

7.

Docquets for the Hospital Seal.

Minutes:

There were no docquets for the seal.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 7.

8.

The Freedom of the City pdf icon PDF 111 KB

To consider a circulated list of applications for the Freedom of the City.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 8.

Minutes:

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 the City by Redemption:-

 

Marlyn De La Cruz Macabontoc

a Nanny

Morden,

Surrey

 

Michael David Hoddy

Citizen and Information Technologist

 

 

Robert  Laurens 

Citizen and Information Technologist

 

 

Julia Georgina Lucia  Hamilton 

an Artist

Hackney

 

Christopher Punter

Citizen and Information Technologist

 

 

Steven Jones 

Citizen and Information Technologist

 

 

Ailbhe Baranie Edgar 

a Solicitor, retired

Islington

 

Graham Williams 

Citizen and Painter Stainer

 

 

Martin John Davies

Citizen and Scrivener

 

 

Stephen David Clark 

a Construction Site Manager

Surbiton,

Surrey

 

Anjola Adeniyi

Citizen and Information Technologist

 

 

Sarah Jane Fletcher Harris 

Citizen and Basketmaker

 

 

Haig Walter Wing 

a Transport Manager, retired

Biggleswade,

Bedfordshire

 

Paul Frank Basson

Citizen and Firefighter

 

 

Peter Richard Cowland

Citizen and Firefighter

 

 

Kim Jeanette Donald

a Catering Manager

Tower Hamlets

 

Wendy Mead, OBE, CC

Citizen and Glover

 

 

Marianne Bernadette Fredericks, CC

Citizen and Baker

 

 

Avrom Boris Lasarow

a Chief Executive Officer

Ashford, Kent

 

Lars Bendik Andersen

Citizen and World Trader

 

 

Lee John Robertson

Citizen and Marketor

 

 

Peter Frederick  Latchford

an Import/export Clerk, retired

Stanford-le-Hope,

Essex

 

Peter Hubert William Ruddy

Citizen and Bowyer

 

 

Melvyn Stuart Davis

Citizen and Bowyer

 

 

Lucy Mari Hughes 

a Speech and Language Therapist

Ashtead, Surrey

 

Diana Mary Hughes 

Citizen and Tin Plate Worker Alias Wire Worker

 

 

David William Henderson-Begg

Citizen and Tin Plate Worker Alias Wire Worker

 

 


James Nicholas  Weal 

a Land Acquisition and Developer

Wimbledon

 

Brian Derek Francois

Citizen and Environmental Cleaner

 

 

Mark Gino Francois

Citizen and Wheelwright

 

 

John Aidan  Lawson 

a Royal Air Force Navigator

Ruskington,

Lincolnshire

 

William Barrie Fraser, OBE

Citizen and Gardener

 

 

Richard David Regan, OBE, Deputy

Citizen and Cutler

 

 

Joshua Patrick Joseph  Delve

a Student

Cobham, Surrey

 

Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick, OBE, Deputy

Citizen and Bowyer

 

 

Philip Woodhouse, Deputy

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 8.

9.

Legislation pdf icon PDF 56 KB

To receive a report setting out measures introduced into Parliament which may have an effect on the services provided by the City Corporation.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 9.

Minutes:

The Court received a report on measures introduced by Parliament which might have an effect on the services provided by the City Corporation as follows:-

 

Statutory Instruments

Date in Force

 

The Waste (Miscellaneous Amendments) (EU Exit) (No. 2) Regulations 2019 S.I. No. 188

The Regulations make technical changes to update English law as a consequence of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU. No environmental standards will be removed or altered by the Regulations, which apply to the Common Council in its capacities as a local authority and waste collection authority.

 

 

Draft Statutory Instruments

 

The Financial Services (Miscellaneous) (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019

The Regulations make technical changes to primary and secondary legislation, including the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 to update English law as a consequence of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.

 

 

A considerable number of draft statutory instruments have been laid in Parliament which relate to the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union. These SIs make technical changes to the update English law as a consequence of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU. Subject matters include financial services, data-protection, agriculture, chemicals, food, drink, and veterinary medicine.

 

 

 

 

The text of the measures and the explanatory notes may be obtained from the Remembrancer’s Office.

 

 

 

29 March 2019

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 9.

10.

Appointments

To consider the following appointments:

* denotes a Member standing for re-appointment

 

(A)         Two Members on the Licensing Committee, for the balance of a term expiring in April 2020.

 

Nominations received:-

Karina Dostalova

 

(B)         One Member on the Education Board, for the balance of a term expiring in April 2021.

 

Nominations received:-

Benjamin Murphy

 

(C)         Three Members on the Guild Church Council of St Lawrence Jewry for one-year terms expiring in March 2020.

 

Nominations received:-

* Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick, O.B.E., Deputy

* Simon D’Olier Duckworth, O.B.E., D.L.

* Gregory Percy Jones, Q.C., Alderman

 

(D)         Two Members on the CastleBaynard Educational Foundation & Alderman Samuel Wilson Fund for three-year terms expiring in March 2022.

 

Nominations received:-

* Catherine McGuinness, Deputy

* Jeremy Lewis Simons

 

(E)         One  Member on the Thames Festival Trust for a three-year term expiring in March 2022.

 

Nominations received:-

* John George Stewart Scott, J.P.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 10.

Minutes:

The Court proceeded to consider appointments to the following Committees:-

* denotes a Member standing for re-appointment

 

(A)         One Member on the Licensing Committee, for the balance of a term expiring in April 2020.

                                                                                                                                      

Nominations received:-

Karina Dostalova

 

Read.

 

Whereupon the Lord Mayor declared Karina Dostalova to be appointed to the Licensing Committee.

 

(B)         One Member on the Education Board, for the balance of a term expiring in April 2021.

 

Nominations received:-

Benjamin Murphy

 

Read.

 

Whereupon the Lord Mayor declared Benjamin Murphy to be appointed to the Education Board.

 

(C)         Three Members on the Guild Church Council of St Lawrence Jewry, for one year terms expiring in March 2020.

 

Nominations received:-

*Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick, O.B.E., Deputy

*Simon D’Olier Duckworth, O.B.E., D.L.

*Gregory Percy Jones, Q.C., Alderman

 

Read.

 

Whereupon the Lord Mayor declared Deputy Roger Chadwick, Simon Duckworth, and Alderman Gregory Jones to be appointed to the Guild Church Council of St Lawrence Jewry.

 

(D)         Two Members on the Castle Baynard Educational Foundation & Alderman Samuel Wilson Fund, for three year terms expiring in March 2022.

 

Nominations received:-

*Catherine McGuinness, Deputy

*Jeremy Lewis Simons

 

Read.

 

Whereupon the Lord Mayor declared Deputy Catherine McGuinness and Jeremy Simons to be appointed to the Castle Baynard Educational Foundation & Alderman Samuel Wilson Fund.

 

(E)         One Member on the Thames Festival Trust, for a three year term expiring in March 2022.

 

Nominations received:-

*John George Stewart Scott, J.P.

 

Read.

 

Whereupon the Lord Mayor declared John Scott to be appointed to the Thames Festival Trust.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 10.

11.

The Honourable The Irish Society

(A)      To appoint three Common Councilmen to The Honourable The Irish Society, for three-year terms expiring in April 2022.

* denotes a Member standing for re-appointment

 

Nominations received:-

* Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick, O.B.E., Deputy

* Simon D’Olier Duckworth, O.B.E., D.L.

* James Henry George Pollard, Deputy

Philip John Woodhouse, Deputy

 

(B)           To note that Alderman Vincent Keaveny continues to serve as one of the appointed Aldermen on The Honourable the Irish Society, having previously been appointed for a term expiring in March 2020.

 

(C)            To endorse the appointment of Alderman Nicholas Lyons as one of the two  Aldermen on The Honourable the Irish Society, for a three-year term expiring in March 2022, in the room of Alderman William Russell.

 

(D)            To note that Alderman Sir Andrew Parmley will continue to serve as Governor of The Honourable the Irish Society, having previously been appointed for a three-year term expiring March 2021.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 11.

Minutes:

(A)      The Court proceeded to consider the appointment of three Common Councilmen to The Honourable The Irish Society, for terms of three years.

*denotes a Member standing for re-appointment

 

Nominations received:-

*Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick, O.B.E., Deputy

*Simon D’Olier Duckworth, O.B.E., D.L.

*James Henry George Pollard, Deputy

Philip John Woodhouse, Deputy

 

Read.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

(B)      The Court noted that Alderman Vincent Keaveny would continue to serve as one of the Aldermanic representatives on The Honourable The Irish Society, having previously been appointed for term expiring in March 2020.

 

(C)      The Court endorsed the appointment of Alderman Nicholas Lyons as one of the two Aldermen on The Honourable the Irish Society, for a three-year term expiring in March 2022, in the room of Alderman William Russell.

 

The Court noted that Alderman Sir Andrew Parmley would continue to serve as Governor of The Honourable The Irish Society for a three-year term expiring in 2021, with a Deputy Governor to be appointed by the Court of The Honourable The Irish Society.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 11.

12.

Questions

Minutes:

100 Women for the Freedom

Nicholas Bensted-Smith asked a question of the Chair of the Policy and Resources Committee concerning the recent initiative to celebrate 100 years of women’s suffrage.

 

In response, the Chair paid tribute to all officers and Members involved in the 100 Women for the Freedom campaign which had celebrated women from all walks of life with links with the City. The Chair highlighted the different ways in which the City Corporation was celebrating the achievements of women; for example, the City Arts Initiative was currently drawing up recommendations to improve the recognition of women across the City’s Public Realm and the Fearless Girl Statue had recently been unveiled in Paternoster Square.

 

ESG Rating

Anne Fairweather asked a question of the Chair of the Policy and Resources Committee concerning the steps being taken by the City Corporation to ensure it upheld the highest Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards.

 

Responding, the Chair advised that the City Corporation had a Responsible Business Strategy which set out the organisation’s priorities for ESG standards. The priorities within the strategy included responsible procurement, responsible investment, fighting climate change, reducing waste in plastics and packaging, and improving air quality.

 

The Chair also provided an outline of the different ways in which the City Corporation had reviewed its practices to ensure they continued to be fit for purpose. She referred to a response which the Chairman of the Investment Committee had previously provided to the Court in 2018, which detailed how the City Corporation’s fund managers were ensuring best practise with ESG; she also highlighted how the Economic Development Office was evolving the work of the Innovation, Inclusion and Growth team from corporate social responsibility to an Environment, Social and Governance approach.

 

Electric Vehicle Charging Points

Ruby Sayed asked a question of the

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 12.

13.

Motions

By Joyce Carruthers Nash, O.B.E., Deputy

“That Adrian Bastow be appointed to the Barbican Residential Committee for the Ward of Aldersgate, in the room of Deputy Joyce Nash?”

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 13.

Minutes:

Resolved unanimously – That Adrian Bastow be appointed to the Barbican Residential Committee for the Ward of Aldersgate, in the room of Deputy Joyce Nash.

 

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 13.

14.

Awards and Prizes

Minutes:

There was no report.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 14.

15.

Finance Committee

To consider reports of the Finance Committee, as follows:-

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 15.

Minutes:

15a

City Fund 2019/20 Budget Report and Medium Term Financial Strategy pdf icon PDF 209 KB

(A)  City Fund 2019/20 Budget Report and Medium Term Financial Strategy – to approve the budget for 2019/20.

For Decision

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 15a

Additional documents:

Minutes:

FINANCE COMMITTEE

 

(Jeremy Paul Mayhew)

19 February 2019

City Fund 2019/20 Budget Report and Medium Term Financial Strategy

The Court considered a report of the Finance Committee presenting the overall financial position of the City Fund (i.e. the City Corporation’s finances relating to Local Government, Police and Port Health services). The medium-term financial challenge facing the Corporation’s City Fund reflected, uniquely:

 

·         external factors, such as potential major changes to business rate income and

government support, which could lead to a significant drop in income.

·         the increased funding requirement flowing from the adoption of a major projects

programme, in addition to pressures across a range of existing revenue and

capital budgets.

 

The scale of these changes would become clearer during the next year, following the Spending Review and reviews of business rates and council tax; these would have an impact from 2020/21 onwards.

 

The Chairman spoke to introduce the budget and clarified a number of elements, following which Members took the opportunity to ask questions. In response, the Chairman agreed that communication and transparency concerning any potential changes to business rates and council tax would be essential.

 

Resolved – That the report be agreed to and the Court do pass a Resolution in the following terms:-

 

1.      That for the 2019/20 financial year the Court of Common Council approve;

 

·           the Premium multiplier on the Non-Domestic Rate and Small Business Rate multipliers be set at 0.006 (an increase of 0.001 on the present multiplier) 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;

·           an increase of 4.99% in the ‘relevant basic amount’ of Council Tax of £894.28 includes a 2% increase for Adult Social Care for a Band D property (excluding the GLA precept);

·           the

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 15a

15b

Revenue and Capital Budgets 2018/19 and 2019/20: City's Cash and Bridge House Estates pdf icon PDF 162 KB

(B) Revenue and Capital Budgets 2018/19 and 2019/20 To receive the latest revenue budgets for 2018/19, approve the revenue budgets for 2019/20, and approve the capital budgets.

For Decision

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 15b

Additional documents:

Minutes:

FINANCE COMMITTEE

 

(Jeremy Paul Mayhew)

20 February 2018

(B) Revenue and Capital Budgets 2018/19 and 2019/20 City’s Cash and Bridge House Estates

The Court was presented with a report which summarised 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 apportioned). The report accompanied the Summary Budget Book which included all the City’s budgets at a summary level in a single document and was available in the Members’ Reading Room and on the City Corporation’s website.

 

The Court was recommended to approve the revenue and capital budgets for City’s Cash, Bridge House Estates and Guildhall Administration for the financial year 2019/20 (the budgets for City Fund having already been considered under part A above).

 

Resolved – That the Court of Common Council:-

 

·         Note the latest revenue budgets for 2018/19.

·         Agree the 2019/20 revenue budgets, including the following measures:

o    Efficiency Savings: Maintain the 2% efficiency saving across all Corporation departments, which together with the pay and inflation uplift of 2% would result in flat cash budgets.

o    Additional resource requests: to establish an in-year provision pending further consideration by the Resource Allocation Sub Committee.

·         Agree the Capital Budgets, as set out in the Summary Budget Book.

·         Medium Term Corporate Plan Alignment and Financial Sustainability

o    Revenue: Establish a fundamental review of priorities to align resources to the Corporate Plan and deliver a sustainable medium-term financial plan and receive a report on the framework and timing in March;

o    Capital: cash limits for the major projects and explore options for further streamlining, joint ventures/private sector capital, a process for prioritising other capital projects, and the disposal

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 15b

16.

Policy and Resources Committee pdf icon PDF 72 KB

To consider reports of the Policy and Resources Committee, as follows:-

 

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 16.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE

 

(Catherine McGuinness, Deputy)

5 February 2019

Report of Urgent Action Taken: London Councils Grant Scheme 2019/20 Levy

The Court received a report advising of action taken under urgency procedures regarding the issue of annual levies for subscriptions to the constituent councils of the London Councils Grant Scheme. Having received confirmation from London Councils that the budget had been agreed by over two thirds of the constituent councils, the approval of the Court was required under urgency procedures to issue the levies before the statutory deadline of 15 February 2019.

 

Resolved – That the action taken under urgency procedures be noted.

 

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 16.

17.

Hospitality Working Party of the Policy and Resources Committee pdf icon PDF 69 KB

To consider several applications relating to the provision of hospitality.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 17.

Minutes:

HOSPITALITY WORKING PARTY OF THE POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE

 

(John George Stewart Scott, J.P., Chief Commoner)

24 January 2019

(A) High Sheriffs Reception

The office of High Sheriff is a non-political Royal appointment.  There are 55 High Sheriffs who serve the counties of England and Wales with each appointment lasting a year.  The City of London was granted the right to elect its own sheriff in a charter of 1130, a right affirmed by King Stephen in 1141.

 

It was proposed that the City Corporation host an early evening reception for the High Sheriffs at the Old Bailey on Wednesday 29th May 2019.  The reception would represent an opportunity to enhance the City’s relationships with the High Sheriffs, highlight the activities of the City’s Sheriffs and promote the City Corporation’s aims and objectives to regional representatives.

 

It was therefore recommended that hospitality be granted for an early evening reception for the High Sheriffs’ Association.

 

Resolved – That that hospitality be granted for an early evening reception for the High Sheriffs’ Association at the Old Bailey, and that arrangements be made under the auspices of the Hospitality Working Party; the costs to be met from City’s Cash and within approved parameters.

 

(B) Armed Forces Flag Day

Armed Forces Flag Day forms part of a week of activities across the country to raise public awareness of the contribution made by the Armed Forces.  Armed Forces Flag Day was established to provide an opportunity to show support for members of the Armed Forces and Service families.

 

To mark this occasion, and in line with previous years, it was proposed that the City Corporation host a flag-raising ceremony in Guildhall Yard during the afternoon of Monday 24th June 2019, followed by light refreshments in the Old Library.

 

It was therefore recommended that hospitality

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 17.

18.

Port Health and Environmental Services Committee pdf icon PDF 53 KB

To consider the annual review of charges for the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 18.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

PORT HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE

 

(Jeremy Lewis Simons)

15 January 2019

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.

 

The Byelaws, incorporating a new schedule of charges for the services provided, were set out in Appendix A to the report and the Committee recommended approval thereof; the Comptroller and City Solicitor being instructed to seal the Byelaws accordingly.

 

Resolved – That the Byelaws, as set out in Appendix A to the report, be approved and the Comptroller and City Solicitor being instructed to seal the Byelaws accordingly.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 18.

19.

Community and Children's Services Committee pdf icon PDF 84 KB

To consider a new City of London Corporation housing strategy.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 19.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

COMMUNITY AND CHILDREN’S SERVICES COMMITTEE

 

(Randall Keith Anderson)

11 January 2019

Housing Strategy

The Court considered a report of the Community and Children’s Services Committee which set out a new City of London Corporation housing strategy – ‘Healthy homes; vibrant communities – Our housing strategy for 2019-23’. It was recommended that the Court approve the adoption of the housing strategy which set out the City Corporation’s vision for housing, and provides Members, residents, partners and officers with a high-level summary of outcomes and activities as a focus for prioritisation, oversight and accountability.

 

Resolved – That the Court approve the adoption of ‘Healthy homes; vibrant communities – Our housing strategy for 2019-23’.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 19.

20.

Establishment Committee pdf icon PDF 74 KB

To consider the draft pay policy statement for 2019/20.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 20.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

ESTABLISHMENT COMMITTEE

 

(Charles Edward Lord, O.B.E, J.P., Deputy)

27 February 2019

Draft Pay Policy Statement

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

 

The statement, having been updated for 2019/20 and approved by both the Establishment Committee and Policy and Resources Committee, was therefore presented to the Court of Common Council with the recommendation that it be approved.

 

Resolved – that the draft Pay Policy Statement for 2019/20, as set out in the Appendix to the report, be approved.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 20.

21.

Freedom Applications Committee

The Chairman of the Freedom Applications Committee to be heard.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 21.

Minutes:

FREEDOM APPLICATIONS COMMITTEE

 

(Sir David Wootton, Alderman)

 

Honorary Freedom Update

The Chairman of the Freedom Applications Committee provided an oral update in respect of the Motion passed at the last meeting of the Court, relative to the commencement of the process to revoke the Honorary Freedom granted to Aung San Suu Ky in May 2017.

 

The Freedom Applications Committee had begun the process by dispatching a letter to the Honorary Freeman informing her of the proposal and the rationale, inviting her comments on it. A response was awaited. The Committee would consider, in due course, the next steps in the process in light of any response received, or none.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 21.

22.

Standards Committee

To consider reports of the Standards Committee, as follows:-

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 22.

Minutes:

22a

Appointment of Co-opted Members pdf icon PDF 135 KB

To consider the appointment of a Co-opted Member of the Standards Committee.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 22a

Minutes:

STANDARDS COMMITTEE

 

(Oliver Arthur Wynlayne Lodge)

25 January 2019

(A) Appointment of Co-opted Member

The Standards Committee comprises sixteen Members, four of whom are co-opted and must not be members of the Court of Common Council or employees of the City Corporation. Whilst Co-opted Members are no longer a statutory requirement and have no formal vote, following the introduction of the Localism Act 2011, the City of London Corporation has agreed to the inclusion of Co-opted Members on the Committee to maximise the breadth of knowledge and experience available.

 

A vacancy for one co-opted Member had arisen and following a recruitment exercise Nicholas Cooke Q.C. had been nominated by the Selection Panel to serve on the Standards Committee.

 

Resolved – That the Court approve the Selection Panel’s recommendation that Nicholas Cooke Q.C. be appointed to serve as a Co-opted Member of the Standards Committee for an initial two-year term (in order to better regulate the terms of office of Co-opted Members of the Standards Committee) expiring in March 2021 be approved. It was noted that, thereafter, Mr Cooke Q.C. would be eligible for re-appointment for a further, full, four-year term.

 

The Chairman thanked the Court for approving the recommendation to appoint Nicholas Cooke Q.C. to the Committee and provided an update in respect of Co-opted Member Mark Greenburgh who had recently been found to have breached Principle Six of the Solicitors’ Regulation Authority Rules 2011. The Court was advised that the remarks made did not breach the Members’ code of conduct, Mr Greenburgh had been transparent throughout the process and this was a matter for the Standards Committee consider now that the hearing had concluded.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 22a

22b

Dispensations - Policy and Guidance pdf icon PDF 153 KB

To receive a report setting out the revised dispensation policy, guidance and dispensation request application form

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 22b

Additional documents:

Minutes:

STANDARDS COMMITTEE

 

(Oliver Arthur Wynlayne Lodge)

21 February 2019

(B) Dispensations – Policy and Guidance

In July 2018, the Town Clerk authorised the establishment of a Dispensations (Standards) Working Party under the urgency provisions of Standing Order No. 41(a). The Working Party had since met regularly to consider dispensation policy and associated issues. Feedback had been invited and facilitated in various ways from all Members and Co-opted Members throughout the very detailed drafting of new documentation.

 

The Court considered a report which set out the final details of this future policy and guidance on dispensations, as well as the revised dispensation request application form, all of which came in to effect as of 1 March 2019.

 

Discussion ensued during which the following comments were made:

·         The Chairman advised there were no plans at this stage to review dispensations already granted.

·         The Chairman, responding to a request from a Member, agreed to ask officers to include links to current guidance and relevant legislation within the Dispensations documents.

·         A number of Members sought clarity in relation to the question of council tax and the requirement for those who paid it to seek a dispensation. Reference was made to paragraph 17 of the Policy and guidance on the granting of dispensations under the Localism Act 2011 and the Members’ Code of Conduct and the position elsewhere, as well as the guidance provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Notwithstanding the latter arrangements, the Chairman advised that the ability to seek a dispensation was provided for to offer an additional level of comfort, should any Member personally deem it helpful.

·         Members commented on best practice, advising that where Members had an interest, it would be prudent that they excuse themselves from discussion relating to that interest and recuse themselves from

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 22b

23.

Education Board pdf icon PDF 74 KB

To consider a report seeking approval of the three strategies relating to Education, Skills and Cultural and Creative Learning.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 23.

Additional documents:

Minutes:

EDUCTION BOARD

 

(Henry Nicholas Almroth Colthurst)

19 July 2018

Education, Culture and Skills Strategies

The Court received a report which outlined the background to the City of London Corporation’s proposed Education, Skills and Cultural and Creative Learning Strategies 2019-2023. It described the process through which the suite of strategies has been developed by the Education Board and briefly highlighted key priorities within the strategies, namely: excellence and exceptionality; broad and balanced curriculum; fusion learning; aspiration and links to the world of work; and accessibility and social mobility. It was recommended that the Court endorse the suite of strategies.

 

The Chairman, introducing the report, invited all Members to a briefing on the strategies taking place on 23 April 2019.

 

Resolved – That the Court endorse the City of London Corporation Education Strategy; Culture and Creative Learning Strategy and Skills Strategy 2019-2023.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 23.

24.

Local Government Pensions Board pdf icon PDF 76 KB

To consider the approval of indemnifying Members of the Local Government Pensions Board and Police Pensions Boards against personal liability.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 24.

Minutes:

LOCAL GOVERNMENT PENSIONS BOARD

 

(James Richard Tumbridge)

7 February 2019

Insurance and Indemnities

Members of Local Government Pensions Board (LGPB) and Police Pensions Board (PPB) had recognised that there would be certain circumstances where the City Corporation’s various insurance policies would not offer appropriate personal liability insurance cover for them in the event of breaches of data protection legislation. It was therefore recommended the Court approve indemnifying Members of the Boards against any such personal liability as defined in the report.

 

Alderman Ian David Luder declared an interest at this item and recused himself from the meeting.

 

Resolved – That the Court approve, utilising powers in the Local Authorities (Indemnities for Members and Officers) Order 2004 and in the Localism Act 2011, and utilising City’s Cash where necessary, and that the City Corporation resolves to indemnify Members and officers, including former officers, and serving and former police officers, who sit as members of the Boards against any personal liability that may arise to pay a civil penalty under the Data Protection Act 2018, to the extent that the City Corporation’s insurance policies do not fully cover such liability, and subject to the exclusions and restrictions contained in the 2004 Order.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 24.

25.

By the Chief Commoner

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 X of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act, 1972.

 

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 25.

Minutes:

Resolved 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.

 

Summary of exempt items considered whilst the public were excluded:-

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 25.

26.

Non-Public Minutes

To agree the non-public minutes of the meeting of the Court held on...

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 26.

Minutes:

Resolved – That the non-public minutes of the last Court are correctly recorded.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 26.

27.

Policy and Resources Committee

Minutes:

27a

Enabling Projects

(A)      Enabling Projects – To consider proposals relating to a series of enabling projects associated with the relocation of the Museum of London.

For Decision

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 27a

Minutes:

(A) considered a report seeking approval of a series of critical works; and

 

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 27a

27b

Report of Urgent Action Taken

To receive a report advising of action taken under urgency procedures in relation to the establishment of a Company Limited by Guarantee.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 27b

Minutes:

(B) received a report advising of action taken under urgency procedures in relation to the Green Finance Institue.

 

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 27b

28.

Finance Committee

To receive reports of the Finance Committee, as follows:-

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 28.

Minutes:

28a

Report of Urgent Action Taken - Minor Works

To receive a report advising of action taken under urgency procedures relating to the procurement for minor works contracts.

 

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 28a

Minutes:

The Court:-

(A) received a report advising of action taken under urgency procedures in relation to the procurement of minor works contracts; and

 

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 28a

28b

Report of Urgent Action Taken - Major Works

To receive a report advising of action taken under urgency procedures relating to the procurement for major works contracts.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 28b

Minutes:

(B) received a report advising of action taken under urgency procedures in relation to the procurement of major works contracts.

 

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 28b

29.

Markets Committee

To consider proposals relating to the Markets Consolidation Programme.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 29.

Minutes:

The Court considered and approved report seeking approval for funding for the Markets Consolidation Programme.

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 29.

30.

Property Investment Board

To consider reports of the Property Investment Board as follows:-

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 30.

Minutes:

30a

Lease Agreement

To consider proposals relating to a Lease Agreement.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 30a

Minutes:

The Court:-

(A) considered a report seeking approval of a lease agreement; and

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 30a

30b

Report of Urgent Action Taken

To receive a report advising of action taken under urgency procedures in relation to the refurbishment of a property.

 ...  view the full agenda text for item 30b

Minutes:

(B) received a report advising of action taken under urgency procedures in relation to the refurbishment of a property.

 

 ...  view the full minutes text for item 30b