Sadiq Khan’s claim that the Spending Review did “nothing… to help London in any meaningful way” is not just absurd, it lacks self-awareness. The Mayor just presented his draft budget for City Hall. A budget which says he needs to make £27 million of service cuts but doesn’t say where from.
His budget is themed around 17 different “recovery missions” and “foundations” but doesn’t explain how this will improve the way City Hall serves London. It is a budget which even Labour felt had undermined the emphasis the Mayor should place on tackling violent crime.
Mr Khan’s budget confirms his intention to relocate City Hall to The Crystal building in east London; a misguided decision which promises savings which seem unlikely to be delivered and one which may prove problematic for a Mayor addicted to throwing stones from glass houses.
Tony Devenish, Conservative London Assembly Member for West Central
Editor’s reply
Dear Tony
I have to agree with you that there is a sizeable risk the move to The Crystal will not save the £61million over five years claimed by the Mayor. A fortnight ago, the budget for the relocation was increased to £17.5million.
As for his annual budget, you’re well aware that more detail will follow in due course. Few would dispute him focusing on economic recovery and on serious crime while paring back the jargon.
Ross Lydall, City Hall Editor
Let’s help both UK and charities
The Government has spent huge sums funding vaccine research which will benefit many worldwide — that’s foreign aid to my mind. Charity, though, begins at home. The UK should help itself while helping those overseas by gifting British-made products to British charities. It would help companies, employment and the poor abroad.
Lester May
