Thursday 19 May 2016

LCCI says London requires more power in devolution quest

London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has called for more powers for London in order to make devolution a meaningful process.

It follows Centre for Cities questioning whether under devolution proposals new "metro mayors" will have enough power to deliver.

Rob Griggs, Head of Public Affairs, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry said: "The Mayor of London's introduction of the "hopper" fare last week was contrasted with doubts that other "metro mayors" will even be able to set bus timetables.

"But London's devolution journey is far from complete. London needs more powers over infrastructure, skills and housing if it is to meet the challenges it faces as its population surges towards 9 million.

"The UK's centralized system of government is an aberration on the international scene. London, like the regions, remains infantilized.

"Metro mayors across England must make common cause with London to gain more meaningful powers across the board, and make the "devolution revolution" more than just a soundbite."

ENDS

Media contact
Katharine McGee
T: +44 (0)20 7203 1897
M: +44 (0)7827 241528
E: kmcgee@londonchamber.co.uk

NOTES TO EDITOR

1. LCCI is the capital's most representative business organisation with members ranging in size from multi-national companies to SMEs through to sole traders.
2. Rob Griggs and LCCI Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Sean McKee, are available for further comment and interview.
3. 'Towards a Greater London' can be found here: