Agenda and minutes

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

The Right Honourable the Lord Mayor reported on his recent visits to Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Bahrain and Qatar, Liverpool, Leeds, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Dr Giles Robert Evelyn Shilson, Deputy

Kenneth Edwin Ayers, M.B.E., Deputy

Resolved unanimously - That, on his retirement from this Honourable Court, the Members wish to place on record their warmest thanks to

Sir Michael Savory

for the service that he has given to the Corporation and to the City for over thirty years. That civic career started when, in 1980, he was elected as a Common Councilman for the Ward of Broad Street but, in 1996, he was elected as Alderman for Bread Street. In that capacity, he was elected to the Office of Sheriff in 2001 and to the Mayoralty in 2004.

An old-style City man through and through, Sir Michael reinforced those qualities we are proud to see in our Lord Mayors; qualities of commitment, of integrity and of service to others, so clearly evidenced by his long-standing support for our Armed Forces, for the Church and for charitable activity. In that Mayoral year another quality of his was clear for all to see: the personal touch on visits to our housing estates, to our schools and even accompanying the City of London Police on some of their night patrols.

Sir Michael’s record of service has been exemplary and when he stands down next week, he can do so with the hearty thanks of this Court for all he has achieved and with our warmest good wishes for a long, happy and healthy retirement.

Alderman Sir Michael Savory was heard in reply.

Letter

A letter from John Bird resigning his office as a Common Councilman for the Ward of Tower was received.

Gerald Albert George Pulman, J.P., Deputy

Sir Paul Judge, Alderman

Resolved unanimously – That, upon his retirement from this Honourable Court Members wish to extend to

John Leslie Bird, Officer of the Most Excellent Order

There was no 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 Orders of this Court, presented a list of the under-mentioned persons who had made application to be admitted to the Freedom of this City by redemption:-

¬ denotes appointed

(a) One Member on the Board of Governors of the City of London School for the balance of a term to expire in April 2015.

Votes

Martin James Day, B.A., M.Sc., LL.M.                   28

Michael Hudson                                                                  14

¬Sylvia Doreen Moys                                                         55

(b) One Member on the City Archaeological Trust for the balance of a term to expire in May 2015.

                                                                                          Votes

Michael Hudson                                                                  18

¬Virginia Rounding                                              79

a) The Town Clerk reported the result of a ballot taken at the last Court for one Member on the Board of Governors of the City of London School for the balance of a term to expire in April 2015.

                                                                          Votes

Martin James Day, B.A., M.Sc., LL.M.                   28

Michael Hudson                                                   14

Sylvia Doreen Moys                                                            55

Read.

Whereupon the Lord Mayor declared Sylvia Moys to have been appointed on the Board of Governors of the City of London School.

(b) The Town Clerk reported the result of a ballot taken at the last Court for one Member on the City Archaeological Trust for the balance of a term to expire in May 2015.

                                                            Votes

Michael Hudson                                                   18

Virginia Rounding                                                 79

Read.

Whereupon the Lord Mayor declared Virginia Rounding to have been appointed on the City Archaeological Trust.

To appoint three Aldermen for terms of up to three years.

Nominations of the Court of Aldermen:-

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

Alison Jane Gowman, Alderman

John Garbutt, Alderman

To appoint twelve Common Councilmen for terms of one, two and three years.

Nominations received:-

John David Absalom

Douglas Barrow, Deputy

Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick

Simon D'Olier Duckworth, D.L.

The Revd.Dr. Martin Dudley

Peter Gerard Dunphy

Dr. Peter Bernard Hardwick, Q.H.P.

Brian Nicholas Harris

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

Catherine McGuinness, M.A., Deputy 

Sylvia Doreen Moys

Ann Marjorie Francescia Pembroke

James Henry George Pollard, Deputy

Richard David Regan, Deputy

Elizabeth Rogula

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

Ian Christopher Norman Seaton

Michael Welbank, Deputy

Appointment of the Irish Society

The Court proceeded to appoint three Aldermen on The Honourable The Irish Society for terms of three, two and one years.

Nominations of the Court of Aldermen:-

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

Alison Jane Gowman, Alderman

Jeffrey Evans, Alderman and Sheriff

Read.

Resolved –That Alderman Ian Luder, Alderman Alison Gowman and Alderman and Sheriff Evans be appointed on The Honourable The Irish Society for terms of three, two and one year respectively, with all eligible for re-appointment at the end of their term.

The Court proceeded to appoint twelve Common Councilmen for terms of one, two and three years.

Nominations received:-

John David Absalom

Douglas Barrow, Deputy

Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick

Simon D'Olier Duckworth, D.L.

The Revd.Dr. Martin Dudley

Peter Gerard Dunphy

Dr. Peter Bernard Hardwick, Q.H.P.

Brian Nicholas Harris

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

Catherine McGuinness, M.A., Deputy 

Sylvia Doreen Moys

Ann Marjorie Francescia Pembroke

James Henry George Pollard, Deputy

Richard David Regan, Deputy

Elizabeth Rogula

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

Ian Christopher Norman Seaton

Michael Welbank, Deputy

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.

The Court proceeded to appoint the Governor of The Honourable The Irish Society.

Sir David Howard, Bt., M.A., D.Sc., Alderman

Kenneth Edwin Ayers, M.B.E., Deputy

Resolved – That Ian Luder, Alderman and Cooper, be appointed Governor of the Honourable the Irish Society with effect from 25 April 2013 until 1 April 2014, it being noted that the Deputy Governor would be appointed by the Court of the Irish Society.

Letter of Francis Jeremy Armstrong QPM thanking the Court for the resolution passed following the announcement of the Honour conferred upon him.

Received.

Questions

1)               Deputy Catherine McGuinness referred to the recent report of the Department of Health indicating that the City of London had the highest level of air pollution in the country, with the highest level of deaths attributable to particulate pollution and asked the Chairman of the Port Health and Environmental Services Committee what was being done to monitor and improve the situation. The Chairman confirmed that his Committee took this complex issue extremely seriously and, as it involved many parties, it was not capable of simple solutions or quick fixes. To focus efforts and provide a coherent basis for the necessary on-going long term and short-term work, in 2011 his Committee had approved an air quality strategy for the City which had 31 action points and was available on the City Corporation's website together with a progress review which was endorsed in 2012 and he outlined some of the steps being taken.

2)               In view of the current concerns about systematic tax avoidance by large institutions, Brian Mooney asked the Chairman of the Finance Committee how much tax was paid in respect of City’s Cash, its assets or the income therefrom by jurisdiction together with the extent of its holdings in the UK Crown Dependencies or Overseas territories and of any arrangements with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in respect of its overseas income. The Chairman reassured Members that the City Corporation paid tax wherever appropriate and was exempt from UK income tax but paid tax on overseas holdings as appropriate. He added that in the current financial year the City had paid tax totalling £344,308 to over fifteen countries including Japan of £80,268. He added that City’s Cash held equities in two crown dependencies, the Isle of Man, totalling £1m, and Jersey, totalling £1.1m, although it currently

There was no report.

From Julian Henry Malins, Q.C.

‘In view of the undesirability of further litigation and in view of the outcome of the negotiation meeting between the Chairman of the Markets Committee and his Officer team and the Smithfield Market Tenants Association on Friday 18th January, this Honourable Court requests the Chief Commoner or his appointee (not being a member of the Markets Committee or elected for the Ward of Farringdon Without) to review the current state of these negotiations and orally to report back to this Honourable Court at its next meeting and wishes, in addition, to express its view that all reasonable steps should be taken to avoid further legal proceedings?'

Names of signatories:

George Christopher Abrahams

John David Absalom

Alex Bain-Stewart M.Sc., J.P.

John William Brewster O.B.E.

Alexander John Cameron Deane

Robin Anthony Eve, O.B.E., Deputy

Gregory Alfred Lawrence

Peter Joseph Martinelli, M.B.E.

Wendy Mead, Deputy

John Hedley Spanner, T.D. 

Motion

In view of the agreement reached, as outlined by the Chairman  of the Markets Committee in response to the question, the mover Julian Henry Malins Q.C. sought and was granted leave to withdraw the Motion submitted (in accordance with Standing Order No. 12) in his name, viz:-

 ‘In view of the undesirability of further litigation and in view of the outcome of the negotiation meeting between the Chairman of the Markets Committee and his Officer team and the Smithfield Market Tenants Association on Friday 18th January, this Honourable Court requests the Chief Commoner or his appointee (not being a member of the Markets Committee or elected for the Ward of Farringdon Without) to review the current state of these negotiations and orally to report back to this Honourable Court at its next meeting and wishes, in addition, to express its view that all reasonable steps should be taken to avoid further legal proceedings?'

Names of signatories:

George Christopher Abrahams

John David Absalom

Alex Bain-Stewart M.Sc., J.P.

John William Brewster O.B.E.

Alexander John Cameron Deane

Robin Anthony Eve, O.B.E., Deputy

Gregory Alfred Lawrence

Peter Joseph Martinelli, M.B.E.

Wendy Mead, Deputy

John Hedley Spanner, T.D. 

Withdrawn.

(Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick)

Wehaveconsideredas totheNon-DomesticRatesand CouncilTaxesto beleviedto meettheCityFundbudgetrequirementduringtheyearensuingincludingtheproposal to levyanunchanged premium multiplier of0.004ontheNon-Domestic Rate and SmallBusinessRatemultiplierstoenablethe Citytocontinueto supporttheCityof LondonPolice,securityandcontingencyplanningactivitywithinthe SquareMileatan enhanced level.  We submit a printed and circulated report thereon:  City Fund – 2013/14BudgetReportand MediumTermFinancialStrateg

Policy, Finance, Establishment, Investment and Audit Committees – Reports

FINANCE COMMITTEE

(Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick)

19 February 2013

(A)         City Fund – 2013/14 Budget Report and Medium Term Financial Strategy including Non-Domestic Rates and Council Taxes for the Year 2013/14

Wehaveconsideredas totheNon-DomesticRatesand CouncilTaxesto beleviedto meettheCityFundbudgetrequirementduringtheyearensuingincludingtheproposal to levyanunchanged premium multiplier of0.004ontheNon-Domestic Rate and SmallBusinessRatemultiplierstoenablethe Citytocontinueto supporttheCityof LondonPolice,securityandcontingencyplanningactivitywithinthe SquareMileatan enhanced level.  We submit a printed and circulated report thereon:  C

We submita printedand circulatedreportwhichsummarisestherevenueand capital budgets  foreachof theCity’sthreemainfunds,  CityFund,City’sCashand Bridge HouseEstatestogetherwiththe budgetsforcentralsupportserviceswithinGuildhall Administration(whichinitially ‘holds’suchcostsbeforethese are whollyrecharged).  The reportaccompaniestheSummaryBudgetBookwhichincludesalltheCity’sbudgetsat a summarylevelina singledocument.  TheSummaryBudgetBookis

We submita printedand circulatedreportwhichsummarisestherevenueand capital budgets  foreachof theCity’sthreemainfunds,  CityFund,City’sCashand Bridge HouseEstatestogetherwiththe budgetsforcentralsupportserviceswithinGuildhall Administration(whichinitially ‘holds’suchcostsbeforethese are whollyrecharged).  The reportaccompaniestheSummaryBudgetBookwhichincludesalltheCity’sbudgetsat a summarylevelina singledocument.  TheSummaryBudgetBookis

(Mark John Boleat)

14 February 2013

As part of the recent post-implementation review of the 2011 governance arrangements, it was agreed that the Policy and Resources Committee should appoint three deputy chairmen to support and assist the Chairman on matters of policy and strategy.

Currently the process for the election for Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen of Committees is set out in Standing Orders. The names of those who are willing to serve are voted on by ballot and the successful candidate requires the majority of the votes cast. Your Committee was asked to undertake a review of the arrangements for the election of its three Deputy Chairmen. A number of electoral systems have been considered and we believe that the most effective way of ensuring the successful candidates have a clear mandate is to introduce a system of preferential voting which requires a 50% threshold for election. The system we are proposing iseasily understood, transparent and can be operated in a timely manner in terms of providing Members with the results.

The proposed system is as follows:-

·          Where the number of candidates is less than or matches the number of vacancies (i.e. three) the candidates will automatically be treated as being elected to office.

·          Where there are more candidates than vacancies, a ballot will be undertaken with Members indicating their preferred candidate(s). In the case of multiple vacancies, Members can choose not to vote for the maximum number of candidates.

·          Once votes have been cast and counted, any candidate having 50% or more of the number of votes will be elected.

·          Unless the candidates each secure 50% of the vote, the candidate with the least number of votes will drop-out automatically. If there is more than one candidate securing the least but identical number of votes then a ballot will be held

POLICY AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE

(Mark John Boleat)

14 February 2013

(A)            The Election Process for the Deputy Chairmen of the Policy and Resources Committee 

As part of the recent post-implementation review of the 2011 governance arrangements, it was agreed that the Policy and Resources Committee should appoint three deputy chairmen to support and assist the Chairman on matters of policy and strategy.

Currently the process for the election for Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen of Committees is set out in Standing Orders. The names of those who are willing to serve are voted on by ballot and the successful candidate requires the majority of the votes cast. Your Committee was asked to undertake a review of the arrangements for the election of its three Deputy Chairmen. A number of electoral systems have been considered and we believe that the most effective way of ensuring the successful candidates have a clear mandate is to introduce a system of preferential voting which requires a 50% threshold for election. The system we are proposing iseasily understood, transparent and can be operated in a timely manner in terms of providing Members with the results.

The proposed system is as follows:-

·          Where the number of candidates is less than or matches the number of vacancies (i.e. three) the candidates will automatically be treated as being elected to office.

·          Where there are more candidates than vacancies, a ballot will be undertaken with Members indicating their preferred candidate(s). In the case of multiple vacancies, Members can choose not to vote for the maximum number of candidates.

·          Once votes have been cast and counted, any candidate having 50% or more of the number of votes will be elected.

·          Unless the candidates each secure 50% of the vote, the candidate with the least number of votes will drop-out automatically.

Following discussion at the Court on 6^th December 2012 regarding the post-implementation review of the 2011 governance arrangements, recommendations relating to the method of overseeing the areas of energy and sustainability were withdrawn. This followed a case being advanced for work in those areas to remain with this Committee.

Rather than having an Energy and Sustainability Sub-Committee of the Policy and Resources Committee, the review proposed that responsibility for energy and sustainability should be transferred to the Planning and Transportation Committee, with this Committee continuing to exercise its overarching role and responsibility for coordinating and approving strategy and policy. 

Since then, more detailed consideration has been given to the most effective method of overseeing the two areas and we have concluded that the Policy and Resources Committee should retain overall responsibility for sustainability. However, given the importance of sustainability and the crosscutting nature of this area of work, general responsibility should be shared, with all committees giving due weight to the subject in their deliberations.

Your Policy and Resources Committee is recommending that the City Corporation’s work in the key area of energy should be transferred to the Finance Committee with it being left to decide how best to address the issue and take it forward. There is a clear synergy between energy, including energy conservation, and the work of the Finance Committee and it will complement Finance Committee’s responsibility for the City Corporation’s operational property.

We therefore recommend that the area of energy be transferred to the Finance Committee with your Policy and Resources Committee retaining overall responsibility for matters of sustainability.

Following discussion at the Court on 6^th December 2012 regarding the post-implementation review of the 2011 governance arrangements, recommendations relating to the method of overseeing the areas of energy and sustainability were withdrawn. This followed a case being advanced for work in those areas to remain with this Committee.

Rather than having an Energy and Sustainability Sub-Committee of the Policy and Resources Committee, the review proposed that responsibility for energy and sustainability should be transferred to the Planning and Transportation Committee, with this Committee continuing to exercise its overarching role and responsibility for coordinating and approving strategy and policy. 

Since then, more detailed consideration has been given to the most effective method of overseeing the two areas and we have concluded that the Policy and Resources Committee should retain overall responsibility for sustainability. However, given the importance of sustainability and the crosscutting nature of this area of work, general responsibility should be shared, with all committees giving due weight to the subject in their deliberations.

Your Policy and Resources Committee is recommending that the City Corporation’s work in the key area of energy should be transferred to the Finance Committee with it being left to decide how best to address the issue and take it forward. There is a clear synergy between energy, including energy conservation, and the work of the Finance Committee and it will complement Finance Committee’s responsibility for the City Corporation’s operational property.

We therefore recommend that the area of energy be transferred to the Finance Committee with your Policy and Resources Committee retaining overall responsibility for matters of sustainability.

Read and agreed to.

13 February 2013

We report two decisions taken as a matter of urgency, 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 voluntary organisations that operate in more than one of the local authorities’ areas.

On 29 January, approval was given to the London Councils Leaders Committee’s recommendation that the Scheme’s total expenditure for 2013/14 should be set at £10m. The City Corporation’s subscription for 2013/14 was agreed at £8,118 (which is calculated annually on the basis of resident population).

It was also agreed that the decision to agree the City Corporation’s annual contribution to the scheme and the overall budget be delegated to the Policy & Resources Committee in the future.

A further decision was required as the Common Council is the designated body responsible for issuing the levies to all the constituent Local Authorities for their contributions to the Scheme, once the total expenditure to be incurred under the Scheme (i.e. the budget) is approved by at least two thirds of constituent councils each year.

London Councils advised us on 6 February that the budget had been approved by over two thirds of constituent councils. Following this confirmation, the City Corporation, as levying body, was required to issue the levies before the statutory deadline of 15 February.

We therefore report that on 13 February, approval was given to the issue of levies as set out below:-

We report two decisions taken as a matter of urgency, 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 voluntary organisations that operate in more than one of the local authorities’ areas.

On 29 January, approval was given to the London Councils Leaders Committee’s recommendation that the Scheme’s total expenditure for 2013/14 should be set at £10m. The City Corporation’s subscription for 2013/14 was agreed at £8,118 (which is calculated annually on the basis of resident population).

It was also agreed that the decision to agree the City Corporation’s annual contribution to the scheme and the overall budget be delegated to the Policy & Resources Committee in the future.

A further decision was required as the Common Council is the designated body responsible for issuing the levies to all the constituent Local Authorities for their contributions to the Scheme, once the total expenditure to be incurred under the Scheme (i.e. the budget) is approved by at least two thirds of constituent councils each year.

London Councils advised us on 6 February that the budget had been approved by over two thirds of constituent councils. Following this confirmation, the City Corporation, as levying body, was required to issue the levies before the statutory deadline of 15 February.

We therefore report that on 13 February, approval was given to the issue of levies as set out below:-

7 February 2013

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:-

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:-

Received.

The annual Armed Forces Flag Day ushers in a week of activities across the nation to raise public awareness of the contribution made by those currently serving in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces.  This year’s 5^th annual Armed Forces Flag Day raising will be held on Monday 24^th June.  To mark this occasion and to help raise awareness of the contribution made to our country by those who are currently serving as well as cadets and veterans, and in line with the established precedent of the City supporting the Armed Forces, we propose that the City Corporation host a flag-raising ceremony in Guildhall Yard during the afternoon. A number of guests, including serving and retired military personnel, cadets, City residents who are veterans, Masters and Clerks of Livery Companies, school children from the City’s Schools, and some members of the general public could be invited to attend. At the conclusion, a brief overview of current service operations can be given in the Livery Hall, after which light refreshments could be served. 

This event would provide an opportunity for the City to demonstrate its support for the Armed Forces, and we recommend accordingly, with Your Policy & Resources Committee being tasked with making the necessary arrangements out of City’s Cash, within the approved cost parameters.

This would be a full Court event.

The annual Armed Forces Flag Day ushers in a week of activities across the nation to raise public awareness of the contribution made by those currently serving in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces.  This year’s 5^th annual Armed Forces Flag Day raising will be held on Monday 24^th June.  To mark this occasion and to help raise awareness of the contribution made to our country by those who are currently serving as well as cadets and veterans, and in line with the established precedent of the City supporting the Armed Forces, we propose that the City Corporation host a flag-raising ceremony in Guildhall Yard during the afternoon. A number of guests, including serving and retired military personnel, cadets, City residents who are veterans, Masters and Clerks of Livery Companies, school children from the City’s Schools, and some members of the general public could be invited to attend. At the conclusion, a brief overview of current service operations can be given in the Livery Hall, after which light refreshments could be served. 

This event would provide an opportunity for the City to demonstrate its support for the Armed Forces, and we recommend accordingly, with Your Policy & Resources Committee being tasked with making the necessary arrangements out of City’s Cash, within the approved cost parameters.

This would be a full Court event.

Read and agreed to.

7 February 2013

2014 marks the 500th anniversary of the Corporation of Trinity House of Deptford Strond, known as ‘Trinity House’. The history of ‘Trinity House’ dates back to 1513, when  the Guild was granted the right to make laws and ordinances in support of its aims for the better governance of shipping on the river and in particular to relieve ‘decayed mariners’ and their dependents. The Corporation of Trinity House has pursued these twin objectives ever since and today they are the work of the Trinity House Lighthouse Service and the Corporation’s charities, which include alms-houses.

Although not a City Livery Company, the Corporation of Trinity House’s links to the City go back to its founding; it has been based within the City since 1660. Each year, the Master and Elder Brethren of ‘Trinity House’ also host a lunch for the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs and City representatives. The current Master of the Corporation is The Princess Royal, succeeding Her father, The Duke of Edinburgh in 2011.

The Annual National Service for Seafarers at St Paul’s Cathedral is due to be held on Wednesday 15^th October 2014 and, in view of the long standing links between the two Corporations and to mark the 500^th Anniversary of ‘Trinity House’, it is recommended that a number of past and present supporters of ‘Trinity House’, including representatives from the Livery, City institutions, individuals and companies that have supported the ‘Trinity House’ over its history be invited to attend an early evening reception at Guildhall at the conclusion of the Service; it being referred to the Port Health and Environmental Services Committee to make the necessary arrangements from City’s Cash and within the approved costs parameters.

This would be a full Court event.

2014 marks the 500th anniversary of the Corporation of Trinity House of Deptford Strond, known as ‘Trinity House’. The history of ‘Trinity House’ dates back to 1513, when  the Guild was granted the right to make laws and ordinances in support of its aims for the better governance of shipping on the river and in particular to relieve ‘decayed mariners’ and their dependents. The Corporation of Trinity House has pursued these twin objectives ever since and today they are the work of the Trinity House Lighthouse Service and the Corporation’s charities, which include alms-houses.

Although not a City Livery Company, the Corporation of Trinity House’s links to the City go back to its founding; it has been based within the City since 1660. Each year, the Master and Elder Brethren of ‘Trinity House’ also host a lunch for the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs and City representatives. The current Master of the Corporation is The Princess Royal, succeeding Her father, The Duke of Edinburgh in 2011.

The Annual National Service for Seafarers at St Paul’s Cathedral is due to be held on Wednesday 15^th October 2014 and, in view of the long standing links between the two Corporations and to mark the 500^th Anniversary of ‘Trinity House’, it is recommended that a number of past and present supporters of ‘Trinity House’, including representatives from the Livery, City institutions, individuals and companies that have supported the ‘Trinity House’ over its history be invited to attend an early evening reception at Guildhall at the conclusion of the Service; it being referred to the Port Health and Environmental Services Committee to make the necessary arrangements from City’s Cash and within the approved costs parameters.

This would be a full Court event.

Read and agreed to.

Japan is currently the world’s 3rd largest economy, with more than 1,400 Japanese companies having established UK subsidiaries and a major Japanese banking cluster being based in London. British exports to Japan are worth £8 billion annually, and politically the two nations enjoy strong links, with the UK continuing to support the permanent accession of Japan to the UN Security Council and working towards the creation of an EU-Japan Free Trade Agreement.

2013 marks the 400^th anniversary of Anglo-Japanese diplomatic and trade relations. A year of events has been planned for 2013 and, as Members may know, the Lord Mayor is also due to visit Japan in April, with this anniversary providing an opportunity for the City to further strengthen its engagement with key Japanese institutions and investors.

One of the events being planned is a business seminar, which will be held on Wednesday 11^th September 2013 in the Livery Hall, where topics for discussion are likely to cover Japanese industrial, technological and maritime services with the UK. It is expected that this seminar will also be used to mark the official launch of Japan Week 2013 and, to allow for further engagement and discussion at the conclusion of the seminar, we recommend that a number of guests including Japanese and British politicians and diplomats, representatives of major Japanese investors in the UK, UK-Japanese trade and cultural associations, and representatives from major Japanese financial, educational and technological institutions, be invited to attend a dinner in the Crypts; it being it being referred to the Resource Allocation Sub-Committee to make the arrangements out of City’s Cash within the approved cost parameters.

This would be a Sub-Committee event.

Japan is currently the world’s 3rd largest economy, with more than 1,400 Japanese companies having established UK subsidiaries and a major Japanese banking cluster being based in London. British exports to Japan are worth £8 billion annually, and politically the two nations enjoy strong links, with the UK continuing to support the permanent accession of Japan to the UN Security Council and working towards the creation of an EU-Japan Free Trade Agreement.

2013 marks the 400^th anniversary of Anglo-Japanese diplomatic and trade relations. A year of events has been planned for 2013 and, as Members may know, the Lord Mayor is also due to visit Japan in April, with this anniversary providing an opportunity for the City to further strengthen its engagement with key Japanese institutions and investors.

One of the events being planned is a business seminar, which will be held on Wednesday 11^th September 2013 in the Livery Hall, where topics for discussion are likely to cover Japanese industrial, technological and maritime services with the UK. It is expected that this seminar will also be used to mark the official launch of Japan Week 2013 and, to allow for further engagement and discussion at the conclusion of the seminar, we recommend that a number of guests including Japanese and British politicians and diplomats, representatives of major Japanese investors in the UK, UK-Japanese trade and cultural associations, and representatives from major Japanese financial, educational and technological institutions, be invited to attend a dinner in the Crypts; it being it being referred to the Resource Allocation Sub-Committee to make the arrangements out of City’s Cash within the approved cost parameters.

This would be a Sub-Committee event.

Read and agreed to.

25 February 2013

We have to report action taken as a matter of urgency, pursuant to Standing Order No.19, in approving arrangements for hospitality to mark the 70^th Anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic.

With 2013 marking the 70^th Anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic, commemorations had been planned to take place in London between the 8^th and 10^th May. As part of the commemorations, HMS Illustrious was to be in London from the 8^th to the 13^th May.  Members will be aware that the City shares a strong affiliation with Illustrious, and it was likely that this would be the last time the vessel was in London before its decommissioning.

In honour of the occasion, a special Service of Evensong has been arranged by the Royal Navy to take place at St Paul’s Cathedral on Wednesday 8^th May 2013 and, to mark the event, it was recommended that the City a number of guests including senior military personnel, affiliated Ships veterans from the battle and representatives from HMS Illustrious’ crew be invited to attend an early evening reception at the Mansion House immediately following the Service. The proposal was considered and approved by both the Hospitality Working Party and the Policy and Resources Committee and, following advice from the Remembrancer that final approval was needed as soon as possible so as to allow for sufficient time to make the necessary preparations and to facilitate the co-ordination of public order arrangements with the City Police, final approval was accordingly sought and obtained from the Court of Common Council in accordance with Standing Order No.19. We hereby report the action taken.

This will be a full Court event.

25 February 2013

We report action taken as a matter of urgency, pursuant to Standing Order No.19, in approving arrangements for hospitality to mark the 70^th Anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic.

With 2013 marking the 70^th Anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic, commemorations had been planned to take place in London between the 8^th and 10^th May. As part of the commemorations, HMS Illustrious was to be in London from the 8^th to the 13^th May.  Members will be aware that the City shares a strong affiliation with Illustrious, and it was likely that this would be the last time the vessel was in London before its decommissioning.

In honour of the occasion, a special Service of Evensong has been arranged by the Royal Navy to take place at St Paul’s Cathedral on Wednesday 8^th May 2013 and, to mark the event, it was recommended that the City a number of guests including senior military personnel, affiliated Ships veterans from the battle and representatives from HMS Illustrious’ crew be invited to attend an early evening reception at the Mansion House immediately following the Service. The proposal was considered and approved by both the Hospitality Working Party and the Policy and Resources Committee and, following advice from the Remembrancer that final approval was needed as soon as possible so as to allow for sufficient time to make the necessary preparations and to facilitate the co-ordination of public order arrangements with the City Police, final approval was accordingly sought and obtained from the Court of Common Council in accordance with Standing Order No.19. We hereby report the action taken.

This will be a full Court event.

Received.

29 January 2013

We report action taken as a matter of urgency, pursuant to Standing Order No.19, in approving arrangements for hospitality following the 2013 Commonwealth Lecture.

On Tuesday 12^th March, the 18^th Annual Commonwealth Lecture is due to be held at Guildhall. The Lecture’s focus on economically under-represented groups ties in with current City initiatives in philanthropy and social investment, and the event should also provide an opportunity for the City to further its institutional engagement with the Commonwealth. Significant emphasis has been placed on expanding the UK’s trade links with emerging markets, and this has recently been a theme in Ministerial speeches including that given at the Lord Mayor’s Banquet.

Given that, and to facilitate further discussion on the themes outlined above which are of benefit to the City, we consider that the opportunity should be taken to invite a number of guests including politicians, senior government officials, diplomats, policy makers, and representatives from charitable organisations and representatives from across the Commonwealth to attend a reception followed by a small private dinner at the conclusion of the Commonwealth Lecture (with the arrangements being left in the hands of the Policy and Resources Committee and the cost being met from City’s Cash and within the approved cost parameters).

This opportunity emerged in January and there was not time to seek the approval of the Court in the usual manner, so we now report the action taken.

This will be a Committee event.

29 January 2013

We report action taken as a matter of urgency, pursuant to Standing Order No.19, in approving arrangements for hospitality following the 2013 Commonwealth Lecture.

On Tuesday 12^th March, the 18^th Annual Commonwealth Lecture is due to be held at Guildhall. The Lecture’s focus on economically under-represented groups ties in with current City initiatives in philanthropy and social investment, and the event should also provide an opportunity for the City to further its institutional engagement with the Commonwealth. Significant emphasis has been placed on expanding the UK’s trade links with emerging markets, and this has recently been a theme in Ministerial speeches including that given at the Lord Mayor’s Banquet.

Given that, and to facilitate further discussion on the themes outlined above which are of benefit to the City, we consider that the opportunity should be taken to invite a number of guests including politicians, senior government officials, diplomats, policy makers, and representatives from charitable organisations and representatives from across the Commonwealth to attend a reception followed by a small private dinner at the conclusion of the Commonwealth Lecture (with the arrangements being left in the hands of the Policy and Resources Committee and the cost being met from City’s Cash and within the approved cost parameters).

This opportunity emerged in January and there was not time to seek the approval of the Court in the usual manner, so we now report the action taken.

This will be a Committee event.

Received.

(John Alfred Barker, O.B.E., Deputy)

31 January 2013

Draft Pay Policy Statement

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 this time last year. This was published by 31^st March 2012. A draft pay policy statement for 2013/14, which has been separately circulated has been approved by both the Establishment and the Policy and Resources Committee and, with your agreement, will be published by 31^st March 2013.

We submit a printed and circulated report thereon recommending that the Court agree the separately circulated draft Pay Policy Statement for 2013/14 to ensure that the City Corporation meets its requirements under the Localism Act 2011.

ESTABLISHMENT COMMITTEE

(John Alfred Barker, O.B.E., Deputy)

31 January 2013

Draft Pay Policy Statement

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 this time last year. This was published by 31^st March 2012. A draft pay policy statement for 2013/14, which has been separately circulated has been approved by both the Establishment and the Policy and Resources Committee and, with your agreement, will be published by 31^st March 2013.

We submit a printed and circulated report thereon recommending that the Court agree the separately circulated draft Pay Policy Statement for 2013/14 to ensure that the City Corporation meets its requirements under the Localism Act 2011.

Read and agreed to.

(John Alfred Bennett, Deputy)

21 February 2013

Regulations for the admission and maintenance of Foundation Scholars

In March 1960 the Court of Common Council agreed that the orphans of a deceased Freeman of the City of London would be eligible for consideration as a Foundation Scholar at the City of London Freemen’s School following a recommendation from the Board of Governors. Any such scholarships would be funded from Freedom fee income.

Following a discussion at the January 2013 meeting of the Board of Governors it was recommended that delegated authority be sought for approving Foundation Scholarship applications to assist in the efficiency and expediency of the decision-making process. In addition, the Board felt that the Foundation Scholar guidelines should be updated to reflect both the day and boarding Foundation Scholars and to remove the reference to ‘Freewoman’ in the existing regulations, reverting to the original title of ‘Freeman’. A change to the guidelines requires Court approval.

We submit a printed and circulated report submitting the updated guidelines for your approval together with a request for delegated authority for the Board of Governors to approve Foundation Scholarship applications and we recommend approval thereof.

City’s Cash Committees Reports

BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE CITY OF LONDON FREEMEN’S SCHOOL

(John Alfred Bennett, Deputy)

21 February 2013

Regulations for the admission and maintenance of Foundation Scholars

In March 1960 the Court of Common Council agreed that the orphans of a deceased Freeman of the City of London would be eligible for consideration as a Foundation Scholar at the City of London Freemen’s School following a recommendation from the Board of Governors. Any such scholarships would be funded from Freedom fee income.

Following a discussion at the January 2013 meeting of the Board of Governors it was recommended that delegated authority be sought for approving Foundation Scholarship applications to assist in the efficiency and expediency of the decision-making process. In addition, the Board felt that the Foundation Scholar guidelines should be updated to reflect both the day and boarding Foundation Scholars and to remove the reference to ‘Freewoman’ in the existing regulations, reverting to the original title of ‘Freeman’. A change to the guidelines requires Court approval.

We submit a printed and circulated report submitting the updated guidelines for your approval together with a request for delegated authority for the Board of Governors to approve Foundation Scholarship applications and we recommend approval thereof.

Read and agreed to.

18 June 2012

Holborn CircusArea Enhancement Scheme

Our Streets & Walkways Sub Committee together with the Projects Sub Committee have considered a detailed design for major junction improvement works at Holborn Circus at an estimated total cost of £3,091,393.  The proposed project will reduce accident rates, ease pedestrian flows and create a high quality public realm, making the area more pleasant, safer and easier to navigate.  The project emerged as a result of extensive feasibility and consultation studies undertaken by the City, in partnership with the London Borough of Camden and Transport for London.   The matter has been given a great deal of consideration and we submit a printed and circulated report thereon, which we recommend for your approval.

Rates Committees - Reports

PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE 

(Martin Charles Farr)

18 June 2012

Holborn Circus Area Enhancement Scheme

Our Streets & Walkways Sub Committee together with the Projects Sub Committee have considered a detailed design for major junction improvement works at Holborn Circus at an estimated total cost of £3,091,393.  The proposed project will reduce accident rates, ease pedestrian flows and create a high quality public realm, making the area more pleasant, safer and easier to navigate.  The project emerged as a result of extensive feasibility and consultation studies undertaken by the City, in partnership with the London Borough of Camden and Transport for London.   The matter has been given a great deal of consideration and we submit a printed and circulated report thereon, which we recommend for your approval.

Read and agreed to.

8 January 2013

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 2013/14.

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.

PORT HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE

(John Tomlinson B.A. MSc.)

8 January 2013

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 2013/14.

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.

“That the public be excluded from the meeting for one item of business concerning recommendations of the Property Investment Board regarding the refurbishment of 1/5 London Wall Buildings, EC2 on the grounds that it involves the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act, 1972.”

Kenneth Edwin Ayers, M.B.E., Deputy

Roger Arthur Holden Chadwick

Resolved - That the public be excluded from the meeting for the following item of business below on the grounds that it involves 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

The Court approved recommendations of the Property Investment Board regarding the refurbishment of 1/5 London Wall Buildings, EC2