MQT answers Jan 20
Bullying in London Fire Brigade
Question No: 2020/0237
Andrew Dismore
What are you doing to address the findings of HMICFRS that some staff in the London Fire Brigade report being bullied or harassed at work?
Answer for Bullying in London Fire Brigade
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Bullying in London Fire Brigade
The Mayor
Last updated: 27 January, 2020
I was deeply concerned by the experience some LFB reported of being bullied and harassed and it is vital that any behaviour of this kind is rooted out as a matter of urgency.
In 2019 an external review was undertaken of London Fire Brigade’s (LFB) harassment complaints procedure, resulting in a new, clearer and easier to use policy being drafted. The new policy is due for launch in Spring 2020. Bullying and harassment complaints are now dealt with by a team with a greater number of experienced personnel.
Work is underway to develop LFB’s behavioural framework for all employees, based on a new organisational strategy. Additionally, a tailored leadership programme will be launched, which will include training to assist managers in improving their skills in areas such as reducing incidents of bullying, harassment and dispute resolution.
Question No: 2020/0240
Andrew Dismore
HMICFRS has said that the London Fire Brigade “requires improvement”. How will you address the concerns raised by HMICFRS in its recent inspection of the Brigade?
Answer for HMICFRS monitoring framework
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
HMICFRS monitoring framework
The Mayor
Last updated: 27 January, 2020
The results of the London Fire Brigade’s HMICFRS inspection were simply not good enough and it is important that changes are made to address the issues raised as quickly as possible.
The London Fire Commissioner is compiling an action plan to address the concerns raised by HMICFRS. This is due to report back to the Inspectorate at the end of February 2020 and will also be provided to the London Assembly Fire, Resilience and Emergency Planning Committee. My team and I will work with the Commissioner to ensure the action plan addresses the full scale and range of the issue facing the Brigade.
Question No: 2020/0223
Andrew Dismore
There have been a spate of muggings in East Finchley targeted at teenagers around the High Road between 4-8pm. The local police stepped up visible patrols in the area throughout December 2019. How can we ensure that this problem does not continue in the new year when schools return, and what advice can be given to young people to keep themselves safe?
Muggings in East Finchley
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
I have been informed by the MPS that Dedicated Ward Officers and Safer Schools Officers were provided with funding for high visibility patrols in the area in the run up to Christmas and during the first week back after the holidays. Beyond this, the neighbourhood tasking and Safer Schools team are carrying out proactive operations targeting youth violence and robbery. These operations will look to prevent and detect crime in this and other areas where there have been an increase in these type of offences. In addition, the Safer Schools Sergeant regularly makes the offer for their officers to go into all of the secondary schools in Barnet, and give talks on personal safety and crime prevention.
Question No: 2020/0224
Andrew Dismore
Last year you provided funding to increase the amount of public drinking fountains across London in a bid to reduce plastics use. Are you writing to major public buildings, such as shopping centres, museums, tourist attractions, the Royal Parks and local councils to ask them to install more public drinking fountains in their properties? Do you have any plans to roll these out in tube stations?
Drinking fountains
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
To reduce single-use plastic waste, I have installed 28 water fountains with the Zoological Society of London, and have partnered with Thames Water to install over 100 more across London, of which 33 have been installed.
I invited applications to host a water fountain from all Londoners, including shopping centres, museums, tourist attractions, local councils and Royal Parks. I used a news release, GLA and partner websites, social media and existing communications networks (e.g. London Environment Directors Network) to promote these programmes and ensure as many organisations as possible were contacted.
My officers have also worked with London boroughs, community groups, the culture sector and London & Partners membership network to call on venues, large hospitality businesses and tourist attractions to sign up to the Refill London scheme. We now have over 3,500 refill points across the city including major tourist attractions and museums (e.g. Tate Modern, Natural History Museum).
On 18 July, I announced the locations of 20 water fountains to be installed at rail and underground stations (see Mayor’s Question 2019/20821). TfL are currently developing a feasibility study for accelerating a roll out of public drinking fountains across more Tube stations and other TfL stations.
Question No: 2020/0225
Andrew Dismore
What is your assessment of the latest figures on Accident and Emergency waiting times for hospital trusts in London?
A&E performances in London
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
The latest figures show that no hospital trust in London delivered the four-hour standard, and that the percentage decreased from October to November. They also show that there is a steady increase in the number of people accessing A&E services.
This does, of course, concern me. But with increasing demand and winter pressures – and a lack of investment – it is no surprise that hospitals are struggling to keep within the four-hour timeframe.
I will continue to press for improvements to NHS performance, including A&E waiting times, at my regular meetings with the Regional Director of NHS England and NHS Improvement.
food waste collection in Barnet
Question No: 2020/0226
Andrew Dismore
What is the latest news in your dialogue with Barnet Council regarding food waste collections?
food waste collection in Barnet
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Following the in-depth modelling of their waste services and future options (as requested by me subsequent to Barnet’s withdrawal of the Food waste collection service in the autumn of 2018), Barnet submitted their Waste Reduction and Recycling Plan (as required by my London Environment Strategy), in October 2019.
Officers have reviewed the plan and I will be writing to the authority shortly. The plan commits to the reintroduction of a new and improved service in March/April 2022, following the procurement of a new dedicated fleet and the identification of new depot space for that fleet. A detailed timeline and programme has also been submitted for this service reintroduction
Question No: 2020/0227
Andrew Dismore
What assessments have been made regarding the link between street lighting and public safety? Do you believe that better street lighting is a deterrent to crime, and if so, can you put pressure on councils in London who are upgrading street lighting infrastructure to ensure better lighting in areas with high levels of mugging?
Street lighting and safety
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
A report from the College of Policing, itself based on a Campbell Collaboration Systematic Review, concludes that improved street lighting has a positive effect in reducing crimes such as burglary and theft. The review also concluded that it did not however reduce the incidence of violent crime and that problems need to be analysed properly and responses targeted accordingly. I encourage boroughs and police to work together to find solutions to local problems.
Question No: 2020/0228
Andrew Dismore
I understand that TfL will no longer be providing spider maps at bus stops that have fewer than 5 bus routes or are not near a station. Surely this plan is ludicrous and is especially punishing on outer London, where there are many more older voters who do not use smart phones? Was this considered as part of the equalities assessment for this decision? Will you reconsider this decision?
Answer for Spider maps
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Victims of Crime in Bloomsbury and the West End
Question No: 2020/0229
Andrew Dismore
Further to your answer to Question No: 2019/19933, local hospitality businesses and residents report that the figures given are a woeful underestimate of the extent of crime perpetrated against visitors to London. What action will you take to ensure that visitors are not preyed upon, giving the capital a bad name and hitting such an important industry to London’s economy?
Victims of Crime in Bloomsbury and the West End
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response. Please be advised that there may be some delay as the information also requires input from functional bodies.
Question No: 2020/0230
Andrew Dismore
Further to your answer to Question No: 2019/20522, when will there be an evaluation of Delkor’s alternative track fastening on the Jubilee line? And as my constituents who live near to tube lines are still suffering from tube noise from the Northern and Victoria lines, will you extend the trial to the noisiest parts of those lines?
Tube noise
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Transport for London (TfL) is currently trialling an alternative rail fastening called Delkor 167 on the Jubilee line. TfL will have further information on the impact of this product on residential and in-carriage noise levels by autumn 2020. Once TfL completes its evaluation, TfL officers will provide you with an update, including on plans to roll out this alternative rail fastening at other locations.
Question No: 2020/0231
Andrew Dismore
The 184 bus route serves between Chesterfield Road in Barnet and Turnpike Lane. Many residents who not only depend on the 184 bus to get into school, work or just go about their daily business but also to get home, have faced significant frustrations and unreliable service for many months now. In some cases, it is only to bus routes serving some residents (e.g. along Chesterfield Road towards Mays Lane and Manor Road) and therefore there are no feasible alternatives. Moreover, the lack of information or update relating to problems on the service makes it even more difficult to deal with. There are a number of issues relating to the bus route but the main problem is long wait times and inevitable crowding that sometimes means leaving people at bus stops frustrated and angry. What can you do to improve this service?
184 Bus route
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Transport for London (TfL) was aware of concerns over the reliability of the 184 bus route towards the end of last year and has been monitoring the service closely.
Daily delays of up to 40 minutes were being caused by roadworks at the junction of Bowes Road and Palmerston Road. However, the roadworks were completed in December 2019, and customers should now be seeing an improvement to the reliability of the service. TfL will continue to monitor the service closely.
Information on bus service disruptions can be found on the TfL website: https://tfl.gov.uk/bus/status/.
New Year’s Parade and air pollution
Question No: 2020/0232
Andrew Dismore
At The New Year’s Day Parade in central London the air pollution caused by the poisonous exhausts of participating classic cars, such as Rolls Royces, Bentleys, Mokes, Minis, and Aston Martins was exacerbated by engines running when they were parked stationary and with revving up engines to show off. If such cars are included next year, what will you do to ensure such pollution is minimised?
Answer for New Year’s Parade and air pollution
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Blocked Gully – Camden High Street by NatWest Bank
Question No: 2020/0233
Andrew Dismore
This gully has been blocked for over 18 months. It causes a problem as drivers cause the water to splash onto pedestrians. It has been reported by a resident to TfL on 30 Apr 2018, 7 Feb 2019 ,10 Sept 2019 and 17 Dec 2019 with no remedial action. Will you get TfL to deal with this?
Blocked Gully – Camden High Street by NatWest Bank
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Transport for London (TfL) is aware of this issue and has previously attempted to clear the gully. However, these attempts have unfortunately only been effective for short periods of time. A survey has now been carried out and a blockage has been discovered approximately 12 metres down the pipe. TfL has asked its contractors to remove this blockage and is currently waiting on a confirmed date for works to begin. In the meantime, TfL is monitoring the area as a high priority and attending to any excess water as quickly as possible.
Street lighting in Camden Road
Question No: 2020/0234
Andrew Dismore
The defective street lighting has been reported to TfL by a resident on several occasions, dating back to 6 February 2018. Will you get TfL to fix this problem?
Street lighting in Camden Road
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Thank you for bringing this to my attention.
Transport for London (TfL) carries out weekly night-time inspections on its network during the winter months, including Camden Road. In summer, these checks are carried out fortnightly. If an issue is identified during these inspections, it will either be fixed straight away if possible or followed up and fixed as soon as possible. On occasion, repairs can take slightly longer, for example if the issue is related to a power supply problem that TfL needs to work with UK Power Networks to resolve.
So that TfL can investigate this case further, I have asked that its Assembly Relations team contacts you to obtain further information, such as the location on Camden Road and the nature of the defect.
Question No: 2020/0235
Andrew Dismore
Please provide an update on the rank structure for the crewing of command units in the London Fire Brigade.
Answer for Command unit crewing (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Question No: 2020/0236
Andrew Dismore
Please provide an update on changes to crewing that may affect the availability of command units in the London Fire Brigade.
Command unit crewing (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
The changes that are proposed under the command unit integration project will see the number of Command Unit trained staff rise from 96 to a minimum of 244. This will be a significant improvement and increase resilience for the command unit function.
Bullying in London Fire Brigade
Question No: 2020/0237
Andrew Dismore
What are you doing to address the findings of HMICFRS that some staff in the London Fire Brigade report being bullied or harassed at work?
Answer for Bullying in London Fire Brigade
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Question No: 2020/0238
Andrew Dismore
The Mayer review recommended that no further reduction to the London Fire Brigade’s funding be made, following the previous Mayor’s cuts programme. Do you still hold by this recommendation?
Mayer Review three years on
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Yes. However, the HMICFRS inspection report made clear that the London Fire Brigade (LFB) needs to make more effective use of the resources available to it. I will be working with the new Commissioner, Andy Roe, to ensure that the Brigade addresses, this alongside all other recommendations from both the HMICFRS report and the Grenfell Tower Inquiry phase 1 report.
Question No: 2020/0239
Andrew Dismore
What arrangements are in place to ensure adequate fire cover is in place during the 8 Albert Embankment redevelopment?
Answer for Fire cover in Lambeth
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Question No: 2020/0240
Andrew Dismore
HMICFRS has said that the London Fire Brigade “requires improvement”. How will you address the concerns raised by HMICFRS in its recent inspection of the Brigade?
Answer for HMICFRS monitoring framework
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
National Operational Guidance for LFB
Question No: 2020/0241
Andrew Dismore
Do you share HMICFRS’ concern that the London Fire Brigade’s operational policies and procedures do not fully reflect National Operational Guidance? What will you do to address this?
Answer for National Operational Guidance for LFB
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Question No: 2020/0242
Andrew Dismore
Following the concerning HMICFRS report into the London Fire Brigade, how will you monitor the progress of the Brigade in making the improvements requested, and when will such a system be in place?
Monitoring LFB’s performance
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
I have regular monthly meetings with the London Fire Commissioner and the Deputy Mayor. Additionally, the Deputy Mayor has a monthly Fire and Resilience Board meeting with the Brigade’s senior officers which will receive updates and scrutinise progress against the required improvements. My Deputy Mayor is working with the Brigade on proposals for improved assurance arrangements, and will consult the Fire, Resilience and Emergency Planning Committee to ensure Assembly Members have confidence in the rigour of the assurance process.
LFB training for critical skills
Question No: 2020/0243
Andrew Dismore
HMICFRS identified a worrying backlog of staff training in risk critical skills in the London Fire Brigade and calls for a “fundamental review of the contract with the external contractor to ensure that it is fit for purpose”. Do you support this?
Answer for LFB training for critical skills
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Question No: 2020/0244
Andrew Dismore
What steps in training is the London Fire Brigade taking to ensure all officers are competent in incident command?
Answer for Command training
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Emergency vehicle driver training
Question No: 2020/0245
Andrew Dismore
What steps is the London Fire Brigade taking to ensure continuity training is in place for all staff tasked with driving emergency vehicles?
Answer for Emergency vehicle driver training
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Carbon reduction on LFB’s estate
Question No: 2020/0246
Andrew Dismore
What actions is London Fire Brigade taking to reduce the carbon footprint of its current and future estate?
Carbon reduction on LFB’s estate
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
London Fire Brigade’s (LFB) carbon emissions have reduced by 50.3 per cent from 1990 levels, largely due to improvements made to the estate, including energy efficient heating, lighting, insulation measures and solar photovoltaics. LFB’s new carbon strategy (2019-2025) sets out plans to achieve a 60 per cent reduction target, and the direction of travel required to work towards carbon zero by 2050. The strategy proposes a three-year programme of future works to the estate to deliver further energy efficiency improvements and onsite renewable energy installations and plans to move to 100 per cent renewable electricity supply.
Question No: 2020/0247
Andrew Dismore
Are there any plans to restart charging for false alarm callouts?
Charging for false alarms
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
A new team dedicated to the reduction of false alarm callouts has recently been established by London Fire Brigade (LFB). A range of measures are currently being devised, reviewed and implemented by the team to support false alarm reduction practices. However, the key to effective reduction is on site call filtering supported by Control. An extension to filtering by LFB Control Operators was introduced in November 2019. A revised approach to cost recovery will be implemented this year, subject to legal advice. It will apply in limited circumstances, specifically where there is a failure to adopt or adhere to a reasonable false alarm reduction plan, and where sufficient evidence is available to meet the legislative threshold for charging.
Speed of remediation buildings with ACM cladding (2)
Question No: 2020/0248
Andrew Dismore
Since the Private Sector ACM Cladding Remediation Fund opened for applications in September how many full applications have been made to the GLA; how many have been approved; how much money has been allocated to successful bids; what are you doing to encourage private sector freeholders to come forward with bids; and what are the main obstacles to applications coming forward?
Answer for Speed of remediation buildings with ACM cladding (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Evacuation of buildings with ACM cladding
Question No: 2020/0249
Andrew Dismore
How many high-rise residential buildings in London have been vacated due to the presence of unremediated ACM cladding or other fire safety problems?
Answer for Evacuation of buildings with ACM cladding
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Organisations receiving funding through the cladding remediation funds
Question No: 2020/0250
Andrew Dismore
Please provide a list of all organisations and the amount of funding each has received from the cladding remediation funds administered by the GLA?
Answer for Organisations receiving funding through the cladding remediation funds
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Completion of remediation works in London
Question No: 2020/0251
Andrew Dismore
On the basis of the GLA’s administration of the cladding remediation funds, when do you expect a) all buildings to have begun works and b) all buildings to have completed works?
Answer for Completion of remediation works in London
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Enforcement notices against buildings with ACM cladding
Question No: 2020/0252
Andrew Dismore
How many buildings with ACM cladding have had enforcement notices issued to them by the London Fire Brigade?
Enforcement notices against buildings with ACM cladding
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
A total of 19 enforcement notices have been issued to buildings with ACM cladding. Those notices related to deficiencies in the general fire precautions within those buildings.
Accommodation for Grenfell Tower residents
Question No: 2020/0253
Andrew Dismore
Are you concerned that more than two years after the Grenfell Tower fire, nine families are still not in a permanent home?
Answer for Accommodation for Grenfell Tower residents
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Valuing high-rise buildings with flammable cladding
Question No: 2020/0254
Andrew Dismore
What impact will the new valuation process for high rise buildings with flammable cladding, agreed by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, UK Finance, and Building Societies Association, have on the London housing market?
Answer for Valuing high-rise buildings with flammable cladding
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Total costs of building remediation
Question No: 2020/0255
Andrew Dismore
What estimate have housing sector delivery partners made of the cost and time scale for remediating all fire safety problems in their housing stock?
Answer for Total costs of building remediation
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Queen’s speech 2019 – fire safety bill
Question No: 2020/0256
Andrew Dismore
What discussions have you had with the Government regarding the Fire Safety Bill outlined in the December 2019 Queen’s speech?
Queen’s speech 2019 – fire safety bill
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
London Fire Brigade (LFB) officers have had initial discussions with the Government regarding the issues that were announced in the Queen’s Speech to be included in the Fire Safety Bill and the Building Safety Bill. LFB provided significant contributions to inform the recommendations that came out of the Dame Judith Hackitt review and officers will be keen to help shape the Bills to enable those recommendations to be delivered. The London Fire Commissioner is meeting the Minister of State for Crime, Policing and the Fire Service in January, and these issues will be discussed at that meeting.
Queen’s speech 2019 – building safety bill
Question No: 2020/0257
Andrew Dismore
What discussions have you had with the Government regarding the Building Safety Bill outlined in the December 2019 Queen’s speech?
Answer for Queen’s speech 2019 – building safety bill
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Question No: 2020/0258
Andrew Dismore
In each of the years 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, how many primary fires in care homes have been attended by the London Fire Brigade?
Answer for Fires in care homes (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Question No: 2020/0259
Andrew Dismore
In each of the years 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, how many a) injuries and b) deaths have been caused by fires in care homes?
Answer for Fires in care homes (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Question No: 2020/0260
Andrew Dismore
In each of the years 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, how many times has an inspection following a fire at a care home found it to be deficient in fire safety and therefore requiring a notice of deficiency or other enforcement action?
Answer for Fires in care homes (3)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Officers are drafting a response
Question No: 2020/0261
Andrew Dismore
What discussions have you had with train operating companies following the Office for Rail and Road’s finding that software flaws on rolling stock contributed to the disruption of the August 2019 energy blackout?
August energy blackouts (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
My Chief of Staff and Deputy Mayor for Fire and Resilience hold a bi-annual resilience preparedness meeting with relevant stakeholders to provide assurances in advance of summer and winter seasonal challenges that necessary preparations are in place. At the most recent meeting in November, Network Rail representatives confirmed that the relevant train operating companies had upgraded their software so that such problems with the train restart following a power failure would not occur again. They have also taken action to notify all train operating companies with trains that use that software model to undertake the upgrades to their software to mitigate any future problems.
Question No: 2020/0262
Andrew Dismore
What measures have you put in place to improve London’s resilience to energy failures like those seen in August 2019?
August energy blackouts (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Legislation is in place that requires the energy industry to respond and recover from this type and scale of incident and to assure central Government departments of their business continuity plans. Within the industry, there are regularly-reviewed plans and procedures in place to respond to an incident of this scale.
There is a new industry standard currently being developed that will set out the minimum standards for industry-level responses. This will add further assurance to London’s partners of the industry’s ability to respond to such incidents.
London has well-rehearsed multi-agency emergency response plans in place, in the very unlikely event of large-scale power outages, which remain a ‘very high’ risk on the London Risk Register because although they are unlikely, the impact of a large-scale power outage could be extremely high. The London Power Disruption Protocol was revised in 2018 and was exercised with local responders in May 2018; it is reviewed to assess if it needs to incorporate any new learning three times a year.
Question No: 2020/0263
Andrew Dismore
What involvement did GLA family organisations have in Ofgem’s report into the energy blackouts of August 2019?
August energy blackouts (3)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
Ofgem’s report into the energy blackouts in August 2019 had three primary aims: establish the circumstance and cause of the event; establish the lessons to improve the resilience of the energy network: and assess whether the key licensed parties complied with their license conditions.
As such Ofgem’s work was focussed on the Electricity System Operator and the Distribution Network Operators, as opposed to end users, and therefore members of the GLA family were not engaged with the report.
The London Resilience Group will however review the report as part of their work to ensure that any lessons relevant for London’s partner agencies will be incorporated into the ongoing development of London’s plans for events like these, and that we provide Londoners with the best possible response in future.
Question No: 2020/0264
Andrew Dismore
Is Ofgem’s charging of a fine of £10.5 million across three energy companies sufficient considering the difficulties and inconvenience caused by their failure to prepare for disruption?
August energy blackouts (4)
The Mayor
Last updated: 21 January, 2020
The fine issued is a matter for Ofgem to determine within the fining structures of the electricity supply industry. It is, however, disappointing that the fines will not compensate the end users who experienced the inconvenience caused.
Individuals who were inconvenienced as a result of the transport disruption, which was related to the preparedness of the Train Operating Companies for this type of incident, rather than to the actions of the power providers, can claim directly for their inconvenience via the train operators.
Question No: 2019/17650
Andrew Dismore
Are you satisfied with the performance of Action Fraud as the best way to investigate complaints from fraud victims in London?
Answer for Action Fraud
The Mayor
Last updated: 17 September, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Action Fraud
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
Action fraud is governed by the City of London Police and their complaints system is overseen by the Commissioner of City of London, Ian Dyson QPM and the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau. City Hall is monitoring the service received by victims of fraud. A review of the service will fall into Sir Craig Mackey’s review into Serious Organised Crime.
Question No: 2019/20889
Andrew Dismore
You will no doubt be aware of the appalling conditions residents of Marsh Drive in West Hendon have suffered during the “regeneration” of their estate, when undemolished and inhabited blocks suffer from leaks, mould and damp. They are not regularly cleaned or maintained, and as a result there are reports of children being bitten by cockroaches.
Do you agree with me that it is unfair and morally wrong for Barnet Council to treat residents who live in temporary accommodation, and that all residents enjoy rights not to live in sub-standard conditions? What work is the Mayor doing to drive up the quality of temporary accommodation?
Answer for Marsh Drive
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Marsh Drive
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
I am completely clear that people living in temporary accommodation (TA), often for long periods, are entitled to good quality accommodation. More importantly, the law is also clear on this point. I expect all boroughs to abide by it.
I am also committed to supporting London boroughs with the huge challenge of securing decent TA. I have invested £11 million in the PLACE initiative and I am supporting the Setting the Standard scheme, through which they will ensure that all B&B and other accommodation for which they pay on a nightly basis is inspected and assessed.
At the same time, I will make every effort to ensure that far fewer Londoners end up in TA in the first place – by delivering more social rented homes and calling on the Government to reverse its welfare reforms and adopt my blueprint for a more secure and affordable private rented sector.
Question No: 2019/20892
Andrew Dismore
Is it correct that the Met has stopped borough Stop and Search Monitoring Group members watching samples of Body Worn Video interactions with the public undergoing stop and search; if so, why; and what will you do to redress this shortfall in accountability?
Body Worn Video interactions
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response. Please be advised that there may be some delay as the information also requires input from functional bodies.
Body Worn Video interactions
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The Met has recently paused sharing body worn video (BWV) material with the Community Monitoring Groups (CMGs). This MPS decision was based on the need to comply with the General Data Protection Regulations.
Scrutiny and accountability in the use of stop and search powers continues to be very important and that is why I support a network of CMGs. This is particularly true as the use of the powers has increased as part of the Metropolitan Police’s response to rising violence to keep our communities safe and take weapons off our streets. I want to see this problem sorted as quickly as possible.
My Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime is working with the MPS to find a compliant way for BWV to be shared in the future and has raised this matter with both the Policing Minister and the Information Commissioner’s Office. Regular scrutiny of stop and search by my Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime and the CMGs continues.
Question No: 2019/20894
Andrew Dismore
Which Hospital Trusts in London met the 4-hour A&E waiting time targets, and which did not, according to the latest figures, and what was each of their performances?
Answer for A&E services in London
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
A&E services in London
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The latest published figures (October 2019) show that no hospital trust in London delivered the four-hour standard[1]. The attached table provides information on individual trust performance. This information is publicly available on the NHS website.
I meet quarterly with the Regional Director of NHS England and NHS Improvement. NHS performance is a standing item on the agenda. I will continue to press for improvements on behalf of Londoners.
[1] The NHS Constitutional Standard is that all at least 95% of patients attending A&E should be admitted, transferred or discharged within four hours
Question No: 2019/20896
Andrew Dismore
TfL intend to carry out rail-grinding on the Northbound and Southbound tracks in the Fitzrovia area on the Victoria Line in March, can this be brought forward?
Answer for Tube noise in Fitzrovia [2]
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Tube noise in Fitzrovia [2]
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
Transport for London (TfL) is currently scheduled to carry out further rail grinding on both the northbound and southbound tracks of the Victoria line in the Fitzrovia area in spring 2020.
TfL will take noise readings in this area in January 2020. If noise levels have risen significantly since readings were taken in October 2019, TfL will evaluate its programme of rail grinding work and consider bringing it forward.
TfL officers will update you and local residents on progress shortly.
Tube noise in Fitzrovia [2]
The Mayor
Last updated: 10 January, 2020
Transport for London (TfL) is currently scheduled to carry out further rail grinding on both the northbound and southbound tracks of the Victoria line in the Fitzrovia area in spring 2020.
TfL will take noise readings in this area in January 2020. If noise levels have risen significantly since readings were taken in October 2019, TfL will evaluate its programme of rail grinding work and consider bringing it forward.
TfL officers will update you and local residents on progress shortly.
Question No: 2019/20897
Andrew Dismore
How frequently do TfL plan to carry out rail-grinding in the Fitzrovia area until a more permanent solution to residents’ noise nuisance is implemented? What is the timeframe for resolution of the complaints here?
Answer for Tube noise in Fitzrovia [3]
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Tube noise in Fitzrovia [3]
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
I continue to press Transport for London (TfL) to resolve all residential noise complaints as quickly as possible.
Further rail grinding in the Fitzroy Square area of the Victoria line is scheduled for spring 2020. TfL will continue to take regular noise measurements, to determine how often rail grinding should be carried out.
TfL is also trialling an alternative track fastening, manufactured by Delkor, which could be installed in this area. TfL are continuing to progress further design and feasibility work to confirm their suitability, and I have asked that TfL officers update you when further information is available.
Question No: 2019/20900
Andrew Dismore
Do you have plans to extend the roll out of the Santander bicycle scheme? Residents of Barnet, especially in East Finchley, would like to see the scheme extended.
Answer for Santander Cycles
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Santander Cycles
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
Yes. Santander Cycles was successfully expanded to Brixton last year and new docking stations will be built along the route of Cycleway 4 in Bermondsey and Rotherhithe, which is currently under construction. Transport for London will be looking at other opportunities for expanding the scheme alongside new Cycleways where it makes sense from an operational and financial perspective.
We are also intensifying the scheme within its existing footprint. In December, new docking stations were opened at Blackfriars, Paddington, Victoria and Queensway stations, and the docking station on Tooley Street extended.
We are always happy to speak to boroughs about the potential for further expansions of the scheme, subject to operational and financial considerations. From an operational perspective, an expansion to East Finchley is unlikely to be workable without first expanding to Kentish Town, Gospel Oak and Highgate. I would encourage you to speak to my Walking and Cycling Commissioner, Will Norman, in the first instance.
Camden Road junction with Camden Street
Question No: 2019/20901
Andrew Dismore
TfL recently consulted on plans to ban the left turn at the Camden Street Junction with Camden Road. They received 249 responses to the consultation; of which 44 per cent stated that the banned left turn made them feel less safe or much less safe. Just 34 per cent of people who walk and 24 per cent of those who cycle in the area stated that the proposals would make them feel safer or much safer when moving around the junction. Which such clear opposition to these plans, why are TfL going ahead with them?
Answer for Camden Road junction with Camden Street
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Camden Road junction with Camden Street
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The junction of Camden Road and Camden Street is one of the most dangerous junctions in London, and I am committed to making it safer for people who cross it to access two stations, several schools and a supermarket. 15 people were injured at the junction in the 36 month period to December 2018, including two serious injuries. The proposals include a new pedestrian crossing over Camden Road, and more space for cyclists and pedestrians around the junction.
In terms of the overall consultation response, 34 per cent of pedestrians said the proposals would make them feel safer compared to 17 per cent less safe (other responses were neutral). Transport for London’s (TfL’s) consultations are not a referendum, and it does not make decisions purely because of a majority view. TfL reports the views expressed during the consultation, and considers these alongside other factors, including the wider benefits of the project for the strategic transport network and its users.
The consultation response regarding the banned turn reflects concerns from the local community about traffic dispersing onto residential roads. TfL’s analysis shows that relatively low numbers of vehicles are expected to disperse over a wide area. It is working with the local borough on additional signage to keep traffic on the main roads, alongside a monitoring strategy to help shape further mitigations for residents if needed. Not banning the turn would mean a significant traffic queue on Camden Street would drive motorists to “rat run” on local roads, as well as delay the 10,000 bus passengers that travel through the junction in the morning peak.
London Bridge and Borough Market terror attack recommendations (1)
Question No: 2019/20902
Andrew Dismore
What consideration have you given to MC18 in the Chief Coroner’s Prevention of Future Deaths report following the London Bridge and Borough Market attack, that a number of LAS and LFB staff should be present in the MPS control room at all times?
Answer for London Bridge and Borough Market terror attack recommendations (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
London Bridge and Borough Market terror attack recommendations (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
Section MC18 in the Action to Prevent Future Deaths Report is addressed to MPS and LAS. However, London Fire Brigade (LFB) has been fully engaged in considering the recommendation and working towards a London Emergency Services Coordinating Centre (LESCC). Planning and exercises have been undertaken, and a multi-agency trial is proposed for February 2020 that will see MPS, LAS and LFB control staff physically co-located in the MPS Control.
London Bridge and Borough Market terror attack recommendations (2)
Question No: 2019/20903
Andrew Dismore
What consideration have you given to MC1, 13, 15, 16 and 17 in the Chief Coroner’s Prevention of Future Deaths report following the London Bridge and Borough Market attack, all of which have a bearing on LFB?
Answer for London Bridge and Borough Market terror attack recommendations (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
London Bridge and Borough Market terror attack recommendations (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
Each matter of concern (MC) is addressed to other parties including the Home Office, the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO), London Ambulance Service, MPS and City of London Police. London Fire Brigade (LFB) officers are fully engaged with those partners on the matters of concern and represented on the relevant working groups, where appropriate. LFB officers will write to you separately with full details.
London Development Panel 2 requirements (1)
Question No: 2019/20904
Andrew Dismore
Your changes to the LDP2 note that developers should register white goods “or advise new residents to do this”. Will you consider removing the option to place this responsibility on individuals and ensure the task lies clearly with the developer?
Answer for London Development Panel 2 requirements (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
London Development Panel 2 requirements (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
I will update the LDP guidance to state that Developers must register any in-built electrical products which they install. Developers must also encourage residents to register any white goods which the residents themselves bring into their new homes.
London Development Panel 2 requirements (2)
Question No: 2019/20905
Andrew Dismore
What steps have you taken to encourage other public land owners to sign up to LDP2 standards on fire safety, and which organisations have adopted these or equivalent requirements?
Answer for London Development Panel 2 requirements (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
London Development Panel 2 requirements (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
As Mayor, I have been encouraging other public landowners to adopt the practices laid out in the LDP2 Fire Safety Guidance. These measures have been raised in meetings with Transport for London and other partners. In addition, when landowners seek access agreements to use the panel, the Fire Safety Guidance is shared, explaining that I strongly encourage the take up of practices laid out in the document. The guidance is also being raised by GLA officers in regular meetings with borough representatives, encouraging them to do the same on their land. Lastly, the Fire Safety measures have been published on the London.gov webpage.
London Development Panel 2 requirements (3)
Question No: 2019/20906
Andrew Dismore
How many of the following forms of buildings were a) given planning permission and b) built under the previous LDP2 fire safety requirements:
- purpose-built blocks of flats (including conversions, student accommodation and hotels);
- homes where vulnerable people live;
- buildings housing vulnerable residents, such as care homes or sheltered accommodation;
- schools; and
- buildings/conversion of any type that are of 18m in height or more?
Answer for London Development Panel 2 requirements (3)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
London Development Panel 2 requirements (3)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
This information is not currently held. I will provide a response by the end of January.
London Development Panel 2 requirements (4)
Question No: 2019/20907
Andrew Dismore
How many of the following forms of buildings have been a) given planning permission and b) built under the new LDP2 fire safety requirements:
- purpose-built blocks of flats (including conversions, student accommodation and hotels);
- homes where vulnerable people live;
- buildings housing vulnerable residents, such as care homes or sheltered accommodation;
- schools; and
- buildings/conversion of any type that are of 18m in height or more?
Answer for London Development Panel 2 requirements (4)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
London Development Panel 2 requirements (4)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
This information is not currently held. I will provide a response by the end of January.
Non-ACM related suspension of stay put (2)
Question No: 2019/20910
Andrew Dismore
What steps are the LFB and GLA taking to support building owners in remedying the non-ACM related reasons for stay put suspension, given the absence of national funding for this?
Answer for Non-ACM related suspension of stay put (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Non-ACM related suspension of stay put (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
London Fire Brigade (LFB) routinely provides advice, support and guidance to responsible persons (RP) for premises on a range of issues, responding to general enquiries and post-audit queries to support remediation works. Issues relating to general fire precautions in a building, such as compartmentation, fire doors and risk assessments, are the RP’s responsibilities under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, so any work required to remedy issues in these areas should be funded by RPs themselves. My officers at both the GLA and the LFB have consistently lobbied for timely and decisive action from Government to support building owners to rectify non-ACM cladding issues. LFB officers are working closely with building owners and the government’s Building Safety Programme to provide guidance and support and to shape the future framework for building safety.
Cladding remediation fund December update (1)
Question No: 2019/20913
Andrew Dismore
How much money has been a) allocated and b) disbursed to remediate high rise residential buildings with ACM cladding in London, spilt between publicly and privately-owned buildings?
Answer for Cladding remediation fund December update (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Cladding remediation fund December update (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The GLA is working hard to administer the Cladding Remediation Funds as swiftly as possible and my team is in daily contact with Applicants to bring forward applications urgently. Ultimately, however, pace is dictated by the Applicant. As of 12 December 2019:
| Allocated | Disbursed | |
| SSCRF | £208,440,037 | £74,776,327 |
| PSCRF | £49,495.84 | None |
Cladding remediation fund December update (2)
Question No: 2019/20914
Andrew Dismore
How many high-rise residential buildings in London in receipt of funds from the remediation funds have a) started and b) completed works?
Answer for Cladding remediation fund December update (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Cladding remediation fund December update (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
A total of 35 buildings in scope of the Social Sector Cladding Remediation Fund (SSCRF) across London has received start on site payments (stage 1) from the GLA. Out of the 35 high-rise residential buildings from the SSCRF, eight have received payments for completion (stage 2).
No buildings in scope of the Private Sector Cladding Remediation Fund have received payments or submitted full works applications so the start and completion dates are unconfirmed. The GLA is working hard to administer the Fund as swiftly as possible and my team is in daily contact with Applicants to bring forward applications urgently.
Cladding remediation fund December update (3)
Question No: 2019/20915
Andrew Dismore
Please list all the organisations that have received money from the cladding remediation funds in London and state how much money each has been allocated, and for how many buildings.
Answer for Cladding remediation fund December update (3)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Cladding remediation fund December update (3)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The Government and local authorities are aware of and monitoring the remediation of all buildings in England with aluminium composite material (ACM) cladding. Residents of these buildings should also be kept regularly informed. However, releasing a list of organisation names in receipt of funds may compromise the anonymity of these buildings. This would risk the safety of residents in these buildings.
Cladding remediation fund December update (4)
Question No: 2019/20916
Andrew Dismore
What is the a) modal average, b) highest and c) lowest number of state aid forms that have needed to be collected to progress remediation in private high-rise residential buildings accessing the GLA-administered fund?
Answer for Cladding remediation fund December update (4)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Cladding remediation fund December update (4)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The Private Sector ACM Cladding Remediation Fund application process is split into two stages: an eligibility submission, followed by a fully costed application. State Aid declarations are considered when the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government considers a full application and approves a grant amount. As of 11 December 2019, no London buildings had reached this stage in the application process.
Cladding remediation fund updates in future
Question No: 2019/20917
Andrew Dismore
Will you publish a monthly update on the activity of the cladding remediation funds administered by the GLA?
Answer for Cladding remediation fund updates in future
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Cladding remediation fund updates in future
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The Private and Social Sector Cladding Remediation Funds are Government-led programmes and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government publish a monthly data release on buildings with aluminium composite material cladding in England. The GLA will explore the possibility of providing a monthly update specifically for London.
Dr Barbara Lane’s comments on high-rise residential buildings
Question No: 2019/20919
Andrew Dismore
What assessment have you made of the concerns over safety in high-rise residential buildings with ACM cladding outlined by Dr Barbara Lane in her report to the chair of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry?
Answer for Dr Barbara Lane’s comments on high-rise residential buildings
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Dr Barbara Lane’s comments on high-rise residential buildings
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 report drew on evidence submitted by many expert witnesses, including that of Barbara Lane. Her observations on the safety of ACM buildings and the approach to remediation are an important contribution towards the final recommendation made by Sir Martin Moore-Bick. I have committed to doing everything within my power to ensure that the Inquiry’s recommendations are implemented, and ensuring those responsible are held to account.
Prioritisation of cladding remediation
Question No: 2019/20920
Andrew Dismore
What steps have the GLA and other Mayoral bodies taken to identify the highest priority buildings with ACM cladding for remediation and progress those works?
Answer for Prioritisation of cladding remediation
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Prioritisation of cladding remediation
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The Government’s piecemeal approach to building safety makes it very difficult to prioritise based on risk. However, rest assured the GLA is progressing any building that comes forward through these Funds with urgency.
Purchase of flats affected by flammable cladding
Question No: 2019/20921
Andrew Dismore
Has the GLA considered purchasing the flats of private sector leaseholders affected by ACM cladding?
Answer for Purchase of flats affected by flammable cladding
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Purchase of flats affected by flammable cladding
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The problems leaseholders across the country are facing in selling and remortgaging homes affected by safety issues must be addressed urgently by the Government. In the first instance, the Government should revise and consolidate the Advice Notes they have issued so that building owners and mortgage lenders have greater clarity about what remediation is required to make a building safe.
Supply chain for cladding remediation
Question No: 2019/20922
Andrew Dismore
Have building owners in the social or private sector raised any concerns with the GLA about the availability of materials, workforce and other inputs which are needed to remediate buildings with ACM cladding?
Answer for Supply chain for cladding remediation
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Supply chain for cladding remediation
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
Applicants have cited skills shortages, particularly of competent professionals, most notably fire engineers. My team is working closely with applicants to understand the challenges they face in remediation to ensure buildings are made safe as quickly as possible.
Fire safety and borough funds (1)
Question No: 2019/20923
Andrew Dismore
Have London boroughs and other social sector landlords raised any concerns with the GLA about the impact on their Housing Revenue Accounts, reserves, or other funds, arising from the costs of making buildings fire safe?
Answer for Fire safety and borough funds (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Fire safety and borough funds (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
My officers are in regular contact with social sector landlords to understand the impact of increased building safety costs. Many have highlighted that these costs mean that funds are diverted from other priorities, including investing in new affordable homes.
Fire safety and borough funds (2)
Question No: 2019/20924
Andrew Dismore
What impact has the need for boroughs and other social sector landlords to spend money on fire safety improvements had on their ability to meet your affordable housing targets?
Answer for Fire safety and borough funds (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Fire safety and borough funds (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
Please see my response to Mayor’s Question 2019/20923.
Camden borough legal case against Rydon et al
Question No: 2019/20926
Andrew Dismore
What support can the GLA offer to Camden borough in their worthy but expensive legal case against the contractors that collectively left the Chalcroft estate in an unsafe state?
Answer for Camden borough legal case against Rydon et al
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Camden borough legal case against Rydon et al
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
A condition of the Social Sector Cladding Remediation Fund is to ensure all legal action and/or recovery through warranties and insurance is being pursued where reasonable. It is not the role of the GLA to intervene directly in these efforts, but my team is in close contact with London Borough of Camden.
Fire safety qualification and training contract award (1)
Question No: 2019/20930
Andrew Dismore
In relation to DMFD25 on the award of a fire safety training contract, what is the reason for this training not being provided through the overarching Babcock contract?
Answer for Fire safety qualification and training contract award (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Fire safety qualification and training contract award (1)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The London Fire Brigade’s Corporate Management Team decided to remove the fire safety qualifications from the Babcock contract because the sub-contract between Babcock and a third-party supplier failed when the supplier could no longer provide the service. Interim arrangements were made with Fire Service College to honour the training commitment and following a tender process, Exact Training have been providing the training, with an indicative saving of £40 per delegate per qualification.
Fire safety qualification and training contract award (2)
Question No: 2019/20931
Andrew Dismore
In relation to DMFD25 on the award of a fire safety training contract, was an in-house option considered before the tendering of this contract?
Answer for Fire safety qualification and training contract award (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Fire safety qualification and training contract award (2)
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
London Fire Brigade does not have awarding body status and was, therefore, unable to provide an accredited course framework to deliver training that leads to qualifications.
Question No: 2019/20932
Andrew Dismore
In relation to DMFD27 on the budget for new fire boats, why is the new maximum budget of £5,908,000 more than double the previous cost allocated of £2,500,000?
Answer for Fire boat replacement costs
The Mayor
Last updated: 24 December, 2019
Officers are drafting a response
Fire boat replacement costs
The Mayor
Last updated: 20 January, 2020
The original budget was set in relation to an ‘off the shelf’ boat based on the original 20-year-old specification of London Fire Brigade’s (LFB) existing boats and not on a detailed specification to meet the needs of LFB, as that specification was unknown at the time. The new maximum budget was submitted in response to the tender bids received. However, the actual cost of the winning bid is £3,814,024, so the capital strategy budget has been amended down to this figure and reported accordingly.
