Full November 2016 MQT Answers
Brexit [1]
Question No: 2016/4361
Andrew Dismore
You told the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) the government is “lurching towards a hard Brexit” that would be “deeply irresponsible”, cause “financial harm” and that the “consequences could be disastrous”. What are those consequences and what are you doing to ameliorate them?
Written response from the Mayor
A ‘hard Brexit’, specifically falling back to WTO rules for trade with the EU, could significantly increase the cost and complexity of UK businesses wishing to import from and export to the single market.
Heavily regulated sectors, such as Financial Services, could face restrictions on the types of products they could trade with EU countries.
International businesses that have chosen London as their European base may relocate partly or entirely to the continent in order to maintain access to the single market.
I am in discussion with Government to ensure that they are aware of the risks to London’s economy, and the UK economy as a whole, if they do not strike a deal with Europe that maximises our access to the single market.
Brexit [2]
Question No: 2016/4362
Andrew Dismore
According to the Bank of England’s deputy governor for financial stability, Jon Cunliffe, the pound’s volatility will likely continue in the coming months, and sterling’s fall reached a 168-year low. What are the consequences of this volatility for London?
Written response from the Mayor
The depreciation of Sterling will likely have a number of impacts on London. In its November Inflation Report, the Bank of England observed that the depreciation in Sterling since its November 2015 peak ‘will affect the prices of UK imports and exports, which should support net trade through two key channels — reducing domestic demand for imported goods and services and supporting foreign demand for UK exports’.
This may support an increase in London’s trade; however, the rise in inflation that Sterling’s fall is likely to bring may well reduce real wages and so impact on consumption.
We are leaving in uncertain times post EU referendum and, as a result, the net impact on London is unclear.
Brexit [3]
Question No: 2016/4363
Andrew Dismore
The LCCI’s recent report on Brexit makes a series of recommendations to both Government and City Hall. These include not neglecting the domestic agenda, particularly the need for strategic infrastructure investment and more devolution. What is your response to their recommendations?
Written response from the Mayor
I welcome LCCI’s report. It identifies business support for key infrastructure projects, such as Crossrail 2 and housing, which will be vital to maintaining London’s competitiveness, in light of the vote to leave the EU.
A majority of business leaders surveyed also support devolution of further tax and spending powers to London government before the start of formal talks to leave the EU.
I agree, and these were important reasons for re-convening the London Finance Commission.
The Commission will report in early 2016 with recommendations for greater devolution of both taxation and control of public expenditure to promote jobs, growth and greater equality.
Brexit [4]
Question No: 2016/4364
Andrew Dismore
Has the government accepted your argument, for London to have a place at the Brexit negotiating table?
Written response from the Mayor
I have agreed to hold monthly face-to-face meetings with the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, David Davis, in the run-up to Article 50 being triggered, and regularly afterwards.
I will also feed in my views and analysis to the joint ministerial committee that will consider Brexit issues alongside the devolved administrations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Brexit [5]
Question No: 2016/4365
Andrew Dismore
What discussions have you had with the Scottish Government, Northern Ireland Executive and Welsh Executive over Brexit, and with what outcome?
Written response from the Mayor
I have had discussions with the First Minister for Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, exploring London’s and Scotland’s perspectives on Brexit related matters.
Brexit [6]
Question No: 2016/4366
Andrew Dismore
Do you agree with the Creative Industries Federation, that the success of London’s creative industries is at risk due to possible post-Brexit restrictions on free movement?
Written response from the Mayor
Yes.
Current membership of the EU provides access to a rich supply of creative talent which has contributed towards London’s reputation as the world’s leading creative capital. A third of jobs London’s creative industries are filled by international workers so access to talent is hugely important for London’s creative businesses, including those looking for a base in the capital.
The UK’s creative economy is worth £84 billion with London’s creative industries responsible for almost half of this economic growth. The capital’s creative economy generates £35 billion per year and account for 1 in 6 jobs.
Once the UK leaves the EU, the immigration system will need to ensure continued access to EU talent to maintain London’s leading position and the success of a growing UK industry.
Business rates [1]
Question No: 2016/4367
Andrew Dismore
In the light of estimated uplifts of nearly 30% in business rates what steps are you taking to encourage London businesses to check their new values?
Written response from the Mayor
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Business rates [2]
Question No: 2016/4368
Andrew Dismore
What are you doing to remind businesses that face swingeing increases in business rates to go to the VOA website https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/valuation-office-agency/ to check the basis of their new rateable value, as they have only until 30 November 2016 to challenge it?
Written response from the Mayor
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Business rates [3]
Question No: 2016/4369
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3929
Further to Question No: 2016/3376
What assessment have you made of the potential impact on London of a business rate revaluation?
Your response being:
‘It is difficult to predict with certainty the precise impact of the business rate revaluation in London. Forecasts suggest that the total in London could increase by around 10% £700 million but the precise details will not be known until the valuations for each property are published by the Valuation Office on 30 September. These assumptions were reflected in my predecessor’s final budget.
The largest increases are likely to be in central and inner London; some – mainly in outer London – could fall. I am committed to ensuring that any increases in bills are phased in as slowly as possible – ideally with limited changes in 2017-18 – and I will work closely with business organisations in London to campaign against any rises that will damage the city’s competitiveness.’
The valuations for each property were published by the Valuation Office on 30 September as you anticipated, can you now give a clearer answer as to the impact especially on SMEs in London generally, and on businesses in central London; and what representations if any do you propose to make?
Your response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3929.
Capital 500 Quarterly Economic Survey
Question No: 2016/4370
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3941
The London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) published the third quarter results of its Capital 500 Quarterly Economic Survey including a conclusion that, 6% of companies decreased investment in plant and equipment, a Capital 500 record-low. And that against the backdrop of rising costs and staling investment indicators, the Mayor of London should work with business groups to assess the potential impacts of significant new ratings on London businesses across differing boroughs and across various sectors. Will you do so?
Your response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 3941/ 2016.
AirBnB
Question No: 2016/4371
Andrew Dismore
There has been widespread news coverage of a recent decision by the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) affecting rentals through AirBnB and , indeed, any other sub-letting of a whole flat. The key question the court considered was whether a temporary occupation of an entire property by an AirBnB guest is consistent with the definition of the property as ‘a private residence’ – and ruled it was not, thereby setting a legal precedent. You previously highlighted a window of opportunity for local authorities to discuss the issue further with you and for the GLA to discuss it with AirBnB. Can you give a progress report on what you are doing over this problem?
Written response from the Mayor
My officers have met with boroughs and industry bodies to discuss the issue, and my Deputy Mayor for Housing, James Murray, will be attending a meeting with Airbnb and boroughs being organised by Tom Copley AM.
These meetings will help inform any next steps.
Modern slavery
Question No: 2016/4372
Andrew Dismore
More than 1,200 modern slavery victims were identified in London, but the Metropolitan police recorded only 248 crimes according to the first official review of how law enforcement agencies respond to the crime of modern slavery by Kevin Hyland, the independent anti-slavery commissioner. Is this acceptable?
Written response from the Mayor
I note the work of the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner with interest. This is an abhorrent issue and should not be allowed to continue.
The figures you refer to in your question include referrals that the MPS simply did not receive, referrals that were incorrectly assessed as Modern Slavery or those that occurred outside the country but where the victim resides in London. I am assured by the MPS that all referrals received have been assessed and recorded appropriately in accordance with the Home Office Counting Rules.
The report notes the current data collection issues and recommends “A review of the National Crime Recording Standards and Home Office Counting Rules in relation to modern slavery crime with a view to ensuring that the rules are clear, fit for purpose and delivered to forces with detailed guidance“.
I support the MPS in working with the Home Office and NCA regarding referrals not being received and I look forward to seeing progress in this area and a clearer and more accurate picture of the issue in London.
However, reporting figures are only one part of a solution for this issue and I want to work with agencies across London to support victims to come forward on this horrendous crime.
Heathrow
Question No: 2016/4373
Andrew Dismore
As the Government has now decided on the Heathrow option for further airport capacity, what action do you now propose to take; and will you participate in the legal action being considered by a number of local authorities against the scheme?
Written response from the Mayor
I am clear that this is the wrong decision for London and for the country as a whole. I will continue to challenge the decision and seek to hold Government to account.
As I announced at last week’s Mayor’s Question Time, I have now directed TfL to undertake further analysis of the surface access, air quality and noise implications of the Government’s decision.
I am exploring the merits of the various legal options. TfL will be ready to provide its expertise to inform any legal proceedings brought by the local authorities against the scheme.
Green Belt and covenants [1]
Question No: 2016/4374
Andrew Dismore
Is it the case that you, as Mayor, are the joint custodian of land bought with protective covenants for Health and Wellbeing by predecessor organisations such as Middlesex County Council, the former Greater London Council and Local London Authorities; and if so, do you consider is it appropriate for a Borough to remove protective covenants on such Green Belt or Metropolitan Open Spaces, which determine that they could only be used for sports and leisure by the community in perpetuity, so as to allow developments on the land not in keeping with such purposes, claiming “very special circumstances” ?
Written response from the Mayor
No, boroughs are successor bodies.
Green Belt and covenants [2]
Question No: 2016/4375
Andrew Dismore
As paragraph 87 of the National Planning Policy Framework states that “As with previous Green Belt policy, inappropriate development is, by definition, harmful to the Green Belt and should not be approved except in very special circumstances”, do you agree that a London Borough should not be considering a course of action that ignores or destroys a protective covenant, when the land was originally procured to stop such developments happening; and that such covenants should be considered as added protection to the definition in the NPPF?
Written response from the Mayor
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Bees
Question No: 2016/4376
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3921
Do you share my concerns about the health of the bee population? Have you considered the Bee kind website http://beekind.bumblebeeconservation.org/ and will you use your office to promote good practice in bee friendly gardens?
Your response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016 /3921.
Chinese Labour Corps
Question No: 2016/4377
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3890
The Chinese Labour Corps were the largest overseas labour force and without their contribution and sacrifice (thousands of them were killed), WW1 would have dragged on for much longer. Will you support the efforts of the British Chinese community to establish a memorial to these forgotten heroes?
Your response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3890.
GLA as an employer of Reservist personnel [1]
Question No: 2016/4378
Andrew Dismore
How many employees at the GLA currently serve as reserves in the armed forces?
Written response from the Mayor
I’m afraid this information is not centrally recorded.
GLA as an employer of Reservist personnel [2]
Question No: 2016/4379
Andrew Dismore
Are you aware that the Army has a Gold, Silver and Bronze award certificate system for employees of reservist volunteers? Will you commit to ensuring the GLA is a good employer for those who serve with the reserves and seek certification from the Army?
Written response from the Mayor
I note that this certification system exists and that it is designed primarily to recognise private sector employers. I will ask relevant teams in the building to consider whether this would be a useful process for the GLA .
I am aware that the GLA provides up to 10 days off for reservist volunteers with an option for a further 10 days off at the discretion of the GLA.
Impact of HS2 on Euston
Question No: 2016/4380
Andrew Dismore
In August you wrote a very welcome letter to the Secretary of State for Transport about the impact of HS2 on Euston setting out your concerns on behalf of residents after you met with local representatives. Details of this appeared in the Evening Standard last month. Have you received a reply yet; and if so, will you publish it; and if not what are you doing to press for a reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Highgate hoppa bus service
Question No: 2016/4381
Andrew Dismore
Highgate Neighbourhood Forum is campaigning for a hoppa bus service with suggested routes (worked out in collaboration with Crouch End and Hampstead Neighbourhood Forums) linking them to neighbouring communities and hospitals. Are you and TfL looking at their proposals favourably?
Written response from the Mayor
Thank you for bringing this campaign to my attention. TfL will make contact with local borough representatives to explore the ideas of the forum.
Naming of stations
Question No: 2016/4382
Andrew Dismore
Is it true that Tottenham Hotspur are asking TfL to rename White Hart Lane station after the club to coincide with the planned opening of its new stadium in 2018; if so what will they pay for the privilege; and what precedent is this setting for other commercial organisations who wish to rename stations near their premises?
Written response from the Mayor
TfL works with a wide range of organisations on sponsorship opportunities in line with its sponsorship policy. Tottenham Hotspur Football Club approached TfL to consider naming options for White Hart Lane station and they have since met.
TfL is currently reviewing this request and has not made any offers or decisions. There is no modern-day precedent for the renaming of a TfL station and I have asked TfL to ensure it takes into account the impact on its customers and stakeholders, and on any future commercial opportunities, in its discussions with Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.
Jubilee line night tube
Question No: 2016/4383
Andrew Dismore
A constituent has told me that as a Londoner and theatre goer, she looked forward to the Jubilee line night tube opening, but it has not been considered how she would get from the station to her house. In her case it would be from Kilburn station to the Railway Cottages in Cricklewood, which is a 25 min walk. What advice can you give her?
Written response from the Mayor
Bus routes 16 (every 20 minutes) and 189 (every 30 minutes) run through the night, linking Kilburn station with Cricklewood when the Night Tube is running.
Noise pollution through the night on the Northern Line [1]
Question No: 2016/4384
Andrew Dismore
A constituent wrote to TfL in September regarding the noise from the Southbound track entering the tunnel at East Finchley which directly affects them and many neighbours. TfL’s reply indicated the noise will abate and the track has been relaid. As this was more than ‘smoothing’ the track as TfL originally suggested was this relaid track intended to abate the noise?
Written response from the Mayor
As part of preparations for Night Tube services, TfL has carried out grinding work on this section of track to ensure that the rails are in good condition before services commence. The noise being reported at East Finchley is typical of trains passing over recently ground rails.
It is not uncommon for rail grinding to leave marks on the rail which can change the character of the noise but this should disappear after a few weeks.
TfL is investigating the unusual persistence of the noise in this area, including taking noise measurements inside neighbour’s properties. TfL will then decide what more can be done to resolve this issue as a matter of urgency. I have asked TfL to keep you and residents informed of when they expect this to be resolved.
Noise pollution through the night on the Northern Line [2]
Question No: 2016/4385
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3903
Further to Question No: 2016/3391
For many months, there has been a seriously noisy bit of track on the Northern Line, northbound between West Finchley and Woodside Park stations, approximately 100 metres before the track goes over Holden Road. Every time a train goes over this portion of track there is a pronounced clanking noise which is very disturbing for residents living nearby. Will you arrange for this to be investigated and remedial action taken promptly?
Your response being:
‘Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly’.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Your similar response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
As this question has been outstanding for some time now, and as TfL promise a swift response to night tube noise issues, will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/ 3391.
Night tube and public conveniences for Chalk Farm
Question No: 2016/4386
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3925
At the most recent ward Safer Neighbourhood meeting in Haverstock, concerns were raised about the impact of the night tube and in particular that it would result in more people who have had too much to drink relieving themselves in doorways on the way to or from Chalk Farm station. How do you plan to mitigate against this, and will you consider reopening the public toilet at Chalk Farm station?
Your response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3925.
Request stops
Question No: 2016/4387
Andrew Dismore
Following a public consultation in 2007, request stops were abolished and drivers were instructed to stop at all stops where someone was waiting. TfL, despite the consultation, decided not to inform the public of this change. This has led to drivers tending to treat stops as request stops to the disadvantage of not only visually impaired passengers but others who fail to signal their intention to board. Will you ensure that TfL now run a public information campaign to update all TfL customers, including the millions of visitors to our city, of the correct way to use bus stops?
Written response from the Mayor
TfL requires drivers to stop at recognised bus stops. The requirement is placed on drivers because TfL recognises that some passengers may not know they need to put their hand out or they may have a disability that makes flagging down a bus difficult. Please let TfL know of any incidents where this instruction is not being followed and it will take appropriate action.
TfL continues to work with bus operators to improve operating standards and a significant part of the new ‘Hello London’ bus driver training programme focuses on the correct procedure for serving bus stops.
Oyster card top up machine planned for Brent Cross centre
Question No: 2016/4388
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3919
When can we finally expect the bus station at Brent Cross to have the Oyster Card top-up machines to be operational?
Your response being:
‘This Oyster Card top-up machine is now expected to be up and running in the first few months of 2017. This is a little later than originally planned due to the more complex nature of the top-up machines at bus stations. The machines at bus stations are more complex than those found in Tube stations as they need to be able to regulate the cash and stock levels for a longer period of time without being ‘topped up’ by staff. This is because the machines are free-standing units, rather than wall-mounted machines which are easier from staff to access more frequently. In order to do this, the machines at bus stations need more internal moving parts, so it takes longer to ensure they are fully functioning.’
Will you review your answer and take action as the introduction of the long promised Oyster card top up machine planned for Brent Cross centre’s bus station has been delayed far too long as your answer suggests. Assurances had been given that it would come by the end of June, then it was delayed to November/December and it is delayed until at least January 2017 according to your answer. Will you ensure TfL deliver on these broken promises and in particular ensure installation of the machine before the busy Christmas shopping period? Just how long does it take to ensure a machine is ‘fully functioning?’
Written response from the Mayor
I appreciate the frustration experienced by you and your constituents.
The Brent Cross machine is the first in a number of top-up machines which TfL plans to install at key bus locations across London.
Developing and proving the reliability of the new machine has taken longer than TfL anticipated. However, I am assured by TfL that development work is on track and that the new machine will be installed and operational at Brent Cross by the end of February 2017.
Surface level tube stations’ lighting
Question No: 2016/4389
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question 2016/3389
Why, during 15 hours of bright sunshine do Burnt Oak, Colindale and Brent Cross stations, for example, have all their electric lights on like an airport runway 24 hours a day, when other open surface level stations switch the lights off during daylight hours. Do you agree that this is a waste of money and energy and, if so, will you issue guidance to TfL on when it is appropriate to turn lights off?
Your answer being:
‘Station staff are instructed to turn off lights during daylight hours where it is possible.
Unfortunately, a legacy of a number of London Underground stations, including the three listed above, is that lighting is controlled by Mini Circuit Breakers, which for safety reasons can only be operated by trained electricians.
There is a programme in place to convert station lights so that they are operated by sensors, allowing them to operate more efficiently. This work has been carried out at Boston Manor and Dollis Hill stations, and work at Stanmore, Willesden Green, Arnos Grove, South Ealing and South Harrow station is underway.
In addition, efficient lighting is often installed as part of station upgrades. Those recently delivered include Harrow-on-the-Hill, Earls Court, Paddington, Chancery Lane, Baker Street, Embankment, Moorgate, Tottenham Court Road, Blackhorse Road and Vauxhall stations. Such upgrades will continue and include Colindale, which is due to be delivered in 2020′
Don’t you consider this snail’s pace effort to deal with this problem which consumes energy and results in not insignificant cost to be unacceptable; how long do you intend for the whole programme across the network to take; and will you use your authority to ensure that this programme is dealt with far more swiftly?
Written response from the Mayor
TfL is committed to improving the energy efficiency of its stations and will determine its priorities for future station lighting upgrades, beyond those set out in my answer to MQ 2016/3389, early next year.
CS11 [1]
Question No: 2016/4390
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3899
How many people objected to TfL’s plans for CS11 and how many supported them, if those signing petitions are counted individually and not en bloc?
Your response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3899.
CS11 [2]
Question No: 2016/4391
Andrew Dismore
TfL have had no stakeholder meetings in Camden Town concerning CS11 even though the proposals have an impact there as well as in Swiss Cottage, as there is an issue about diversionary traffic heading onto residential streets to the east of Regents Park when Albany Street and Prince Albert Road become the main alternative route to the outer circle for traffic in peak hours (because of the shutting of gates into the park for CS11). These two roads are also affected by HS2 major utility works and are the primary HGV routes for their lorry holding area in the zoo car park, which will then journey to the main site compound and work sites on Hampstead Road, bringing under present plans one HGV every three minutes for ten hours a day on Albany Street for several years. Will you now arrange for a stakeholder consultation meeting in Camden Town over CS11 as soon as possible?
Written response from the Mayor
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Consultation on bus services on the Finchley Road
Question No: 2016/4392
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3905
Further to Question No: 2016/3398
Transport for London has been consulting on bus services on the Finchley Road. The consultation proposes to “extend route 13 to North Finchley in the north and divert it to Victoria in the south (replacing route 82)” as part of an effort to reduce traffic flow through the Finchley Road. However, these proposals in effect rename the 82 bus as 13 while scrapping the existing 13, a proposal that was heavily rejected in a consultation which was cancelled just before the 2015 election. Why is TfL trying to pull the wool over the eyes of local bus users, by reintroducing a previously unpopular plan in this way?
Your response being:
‘Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly’.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Your similar response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
As this question has been outstanding for some time now, will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016 /3398.
Fire appliances and fire stations were off-the-run
Question No: 2016/4393
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3906
How many fire appliances and fire stations were off-the-run for a whole shift during August due to a lack of officer cover?
Your response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016 /3906.
101 phone number
Question No: 2016/4394
Andrew Dismore
A recent drug problem in Gospel Oak has led residents to call 101 on a regular basis, only to find themselves in 5-10 minute queues. Local police also say that these calls are not being regularly referred to them. It seems to me that the performance of the 101 number is a cause for concern. What is being done to improve this?
Written response from the Mayor
Neighbourhood policing is key to my manifesto and I want to make sure that it is part of local communities and able to problem solve these types of issues.
Recently, however, there have been rises in volumes of calls to 999 and 101 across London and the UK, this has put pressure on MPS call handling services. I am assured that the MPS will always prioritise 999 calls and that this sometimes can lead to delays in answering 101 calls. The MPS are working to address this in the short term.
In the longer term the MPS are developing how digital services could operate, providing people with greater choice in how they contact the Police and with a more efficient means of communication.
Sexual misconduct inquiries into police
Question No: 2016/4395
Andrew Dismore
‘The Times’ has established that there are at least 156 live sexual misconduct inquiries into police in England, Wales and Scotland. The figure includes complaints made by colleagues as well as reports by victims and witnesses, although the majority of cases are in the latter category. The true figure is likely to be higher since only a quarter of 44 forces would acknowledge live cases. How many of these are in the Met.?
Written response from the Mayor
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
Muslim-run counter-radicalisation scheme
Question No: 2016/4396
Andrew Dismore
The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), representing 500 charities, schools and mosques, plans to set up their own programme to stop people becoming terrorists, starting this Muslim-run counter-radicalisation scheme with its launch probably next year. What is your opinion of this initiative?
Written response from the Mayor
My Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime met with the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) very recently and they reported that their engagement with members had in fact been misrepresented in recent media reports. They are not setting up a programme to combat extremism and radicalisation; rather they are consulting their members on how best to meet these challenges, making best use of existing mechanisms and exploring what more could be done. The MCB has agreed to share the outcomes from this consultation.
I welcome this development and will give due consideration to any recommendations arising from their consultation exercise.
Anti-Semitic incidents
Question No: 2016/4397
Andrew Dismore
Stamford Hill Shomrim has compiled data which show that in one month there were 32 cases anti-Semitic incidents logged among ultra-Orthodox Charedi Jews living in Stamford Hill. The Stamford Hill Shomrim believes the incidents are “only the tip of the iceberg”. All of the incidents uncovered during the study have been reported to police. How many of these incidents have resulted in an arrest, and what are you doing to ensure zero tolerance of such hate crimes?
Written response from the Mayor
That number of reports in a single month is of concern to me. However, the question does not specify the month in which the reports were logged and it isn’t possible therefore to say how many resulted in an arrest. The MPS will meet urgently with the Shomrim to review how and where these incidents were reported, and ensure they have been dealt with correctly and effectively.
Both I and the MPS agree that hate crime is underreported and this is particularly true with regard to hate crime affecting London’s Orthodox Jewish communities. My Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime is familiar with the Shomrim and we recognise that they have been instrumental in providing third party reporting from a traditionally hard to reach community.
I congratulate them on their efforts. The MPS has reached out to the Charedi community specifically to raise awareness and confidence, and the Shomrim is working with the MPS to see how they could make use of the MOPAC hate crime reporting app.
My insistence on a zero-tolerance approach to hate crime will be reflected in my Police and Crime Plan for London, which is currently being developed. There will be an extensive consultation on the plan, offering Londoners the opportunity to express their views on how the challenge of hate crime will be met, and all other policing issues. The Shomrim and the Orthodox communities will have an important contribution to make to the plan and the activities that follow.
Firearms officers [1]
Question No: 2016/4398
Andrew Dismore
The Met. Police Federation has warned that the Metropolitan Police Service could struggle to recruit 600 extra firearms officers within two years, as planned: do you agree with them; and if not will you give an update on progress towards this target and an indication of any obstacles in reaching the target that you currently envisage?
Written response from the Mayor
The Met is making good progress on recruiting the additional firearms officers.
As of 4 Nov, 285 officers had been accepted onto the 9 week training course. 117 have been deployed with the remainder still in training. A further 290 officers have passed initial selection waiting to enter training. For the next phase of recruitment there are a significant number of officers on the waiting list to enter the initial assessment centre.
There are no significant obstacles currently envisaged to reaching the overall target.
Firearms officers [2]
Question No: 2016/4399
Andrew Dismore
It is reported that Firearms officers are to travel on London Underground trains following the bomb alert at North Greenwich station. Will these all be BTP officers or will the Met. be part of this operation?
Written response from the Mayor
I suggest that these will be BTP officers, as the MPS have no plans to move firearms officers using underground trains.
Firearms officers [3]
Question No: 2016/4400
Andrew Dismore
What is your view of the proposed new national armed police force under consideration by the Government combining firearms officers from the British Transport Police, the Civil Nuclear Constabulary and the Ministry of Defence police; and what impact would this have on policing, especially counter terrorism policing, in London?
Written response from the Mayor
I support any proposals if they are shown to make London safer. The merger of these Forces could produce improved operational effectiveness and an increased ability to support London’s police in times of crisis.
MOPAC will keep these proposals under review.
West Ham and security at the Olympic Stadium [1]
Question No: 2016/4401
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3935 ‘West Ham and the Olympic Stadium’
‘Are you satisfied about the policing and security arrangements for West Ham home games at the Olympic Stadium?’
Your response being:
‘The vast majority of fans who have been to the Stadium in the past few months have behaved impeccably. Sadly a very small minority have not, but they have been dealt with through life time bans and, where appropriate, arrests.
The last few games have passed without incident inside the Stadium and the LLDC will continue to work with the MPS, the stadium operator LS185, West Ham United and the London Borough of Newham to provide all spectators with the safest and most enjoyable experience possible.
I am confident that the MPS has a proportionate policing plan in place, to ensure they meet their core policing responsibilities. The police operation is complimentary to that of the stadium operators, and other partners and the policing plan is based upon an assessment of threat, risk and harm, and is consistent with national grading of the threat of crime and disorder associated with football matches.
I am pleased that on 8th August 2016, West Ham agreed to install a suitable Airwave radio system which, once installed, will enable police deployments within the stadium.’
And further to Question No: 2016/3914 ‘Security and safety at the Olympic Stadium’
‘Chris Allison, a former Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner, has been appointed by the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) after violent scenes at West Ham football matches to help with security. Is his pay being reimbursed by West Ham United FC or does it fall on the LLDC and thus the taxpayer to meet?’
your response being:
‘As the owners of London Stadium, E20 Stadium LLP, a joint venture between LLDC and Newham Council, are responsible for security arrangements at the venue and, therefore, meeting the costs of Chris Allison’s short term consultancy work.
The safety and security of spectators at all events held at the Stadium is paramount and the venue’s unrivalled ability to host a wide range of different events can pose particular challenges.
Chris Allison is a highly experienced former Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner with unrivalled expertise in major event and football policing, and familiar with the Stadium from his work as the London 2012 National Olympic Security Coordinator and security advisor to the 2015 Rugby World Cup. His expertise will be invaluable in helping ensure that all events at the Stadium pass off safely.’
As violent incidents have continued to occur, not the least between Chelsea and West Ham supporters during the clubs’ EFL Cup derby , requiring riot police to intervene as fans scuffled inside and outside the 80,000-seater stadium, with shocked residents of nearby flats describing the scene outside the ground as a “bomb site” and witnesses reporting fights and missiles being hurled between rival supporters at the final whistle, are you still apparently satisfied with security arrangements inside and near the stadium; and if not what do you propose to do about it?
Written response from the Mayor
All the Stadium partners are working extremely hard to deliver a safe and secure Stadium but Stadiums do not throw seats or bottles or coins. The blame for poor behaviour rests fairly and squarely on that small minority of people who are intent on causing violence. The Stadium has hosted Rugby World Cup, Rugby League, Athletics events and concerts with no arrests or disorder.
LS185 and West Ham United have made a number of changes over the last few games including increasing the segregation line, relocating supporters and pursuing bans of around 200 individuals identified as being involved in disorder.
The Stadium employs a number of highly experienced staff to manage safety and security and in addition E20 have appointed Chris Allison to provide strategic security advice.
In 11 matches there have been 18 arrests both in and around the Stadium, this compares to 14 arrests in the recent Aston Villa v Birmingham and 18 arrests at the recent Rangers v Celtic tie. In and around the stadium
0 arrests WHU v Stoke
7 arrests WHU v Chelsea
1 arrests WHU v Sunderland
5 arrests WHU v Middlesbrough
1 arrests WHU v Accrington Stanley
0 arrests WHU v Southampton
0 arrests WHU v Watford
3 arrests WHU v Bournemouth
0 arrests WHU v NK Domzale
0 arrests WHU v Juventus
1 arrests WHU v Astra Giurgiu
West Ham and security at the Olympic Stadium [2]
Question No: 2016/4402
Andrew Dismore
How much has been, or is expected to be, refunded by West Ham to the Met with respect to policing their home games at the Olympic Stadium since the start of the football season; and what has been the total policing cost of these games?
Written response from the Mayor
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
West Ham and security at the Olympic Stadium [3]
Question No: 2016/4403
Andrew Dismore
How many officers have been redeployed to police each of the West Ham home games at the Olympic Stadium this season?
Written response from the Mayor
The table below sets out the number of officers deployed to police each of West Ham home games at the Olympic Stadium this season
Policing football costs [1]
Question No: 2016/4404
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3908
Further to Question No: 2016/3401
‘How much was refunded by London Football professional clubs in respect of policing costs in each of the last 3 financial years; and how much of that was paid by clubs in each division?’
Your response being:
‘Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly’.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Your similar response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
As this question has been outstanding for some time now, will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3401.
Policing football costs [2]
Question No: 2016/4405
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3909
Further to Question No: 2016/3402
How much was refunded by each Premier League London Football club in respect of policing costs in each of the last 3 financial years?
Your response being:
‘Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly’.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Your similar response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
As this question has been outstanding for some time now, will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3402.
Policing football costs [3]
Question No: 2016/4406
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3910
Further to Question No: 2016/3403
What is the best estimate of the total actual cost of policing professional football in London in each of the last 3 financial years, and how much of that relates to clubs in each division?
Your response being:
‘Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly’.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Your similar response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
As this question has been outstanding for some time now, will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3403.
Policing football costs [4]
Question No: 2016/4407
Andrew Dismore
Further to further to Question No: 2016/3911
Further to Question No: 2016/3404
What is the best estimate of the total actual cost of policing each Premier League London Football club in each of the last 3 financial years?
Your response being:
‘Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly’.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Your similar response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
As this question has been outstanding for some time now, will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3404.
Policing football costs [5]
Question No: 2016/4408
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3912
How many extra police constables could the Met afford if London professional football clubs contributed to the Met the full cost of policing their matches?
Your response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
As this question has been outstanding for some time now, will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3912.
Senior officers’ perquisites
Question No: 2016/4409
Andrew Dismore
Further to Question No: 2016/3913
Further to Question No: 2016/3416
What was the cost of perquisites awarded to officers of the rank of commander and above in the last financial year; what perquisites are senior officers entitled to or to claim for; what are the criteria applied to qualify for perquisites; and what was the highest value of perquisites received by a single officer?
Your response being:
‘Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly’.
Will you now give a substantive reply?
Your similar response being:
Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly.
As this question has been outstanding for some time now, will you now give a substantive reply?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 2016/3416.
Stop and search
Question No: 2016/4410
Andrew Dismore
According to the Home Office, black people are six times more likely than whites to be stopped and searched by police. What are the figures for the Met.?
Written response from the Mayor
The figure quoted is a national figure. In London that figure is much lower.
The MPS and MOPAC publish a more comprehensive set of data than any other police service areas. The monthly MPS online Stop and Search Monitoring Mechanism includes the number of stops per 1000 people by ethnic group, expressed as a ratio. The latest figures available show that in the year to August 2016 Black people were just over three times more likely to be searched than white people.
There is important context around these figures. Population levels are based on the 2011 census, and do not take into consideration mobile populations linked to the location of schools, colleges and night-time economies.
Stop and search data can be viewed on the MOPAC Intrusive Tactics dashboard at:
