London council leaders told to bring forward devolution proposals

Under powers set out in the Cities and Local Government Devolution Bill, which is currently going through Parliament, London boroughs are not allowed to form combined authorities, as ministers think this will cause an unnecessary third tier between the Greater London Authority and the boroughs. This has led to fears that London would not be able to benefit from devolved powers that will be available to other major cities in the UK.

However, the bill does include a provision that will allow the Communities Secretary to approve changes to governance and structural and boundary arrangements for London boroughs, which may pave the way for further devolution among cross borough bodies.

A DCLG spokesman said: “The secretary of state has repeatedly made clear he is open to proposals from all areas on further devolution and London is no different.

“While the capital city already benefits from a well-established mayor and has enjoyed significant devolution to date, the government is still open to negotiating a further deal for London should suitable proposals be brought forward.”

Leader of Merton Council Stephen Alambritis, whose borough is a member of the South London Partnership, has said he expects London councils to try and amend the bill as it goes through the Lords to make it clearer that devolution would apply to groups of London boroughs.

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