MQ Answers March 2014
Written response
Race claims against the police
Question No: 2014/1261 Andrew Dismore Further to your answer to Question 2014/0280 and to Question 532 / 2013 on race claims against the police, “how many i) of the 34 internal cases and ii) how many of 33 cases brought by members of the public referred to in the answer resulted in disciplinary action; iii) of those that resulted in disciplinary action, how many led to the dismissal of the officer or staff member concerned in each of the two types of case ; and iv) how many out of court settlements contained “no publicity” clauses in each of the two types of case?” your written response being “Please refer to the letter sent to you on 22 January 2014″. The text of the letter being “Dear Andrew Thank you for your letter dated November 28th 2013 with regard to the settling of complaints of racism made by the public against police officers and members of staff. I cannot comment on individual cases but can assure you that all cases of racism are investigated and disciplinary action taken where appropriate. MOPAC/MPS do regularly defend cases to trial, however as your letter acknowledges there are occasions where the cost of defending a claim would be disproportionate to the cost of offering an out of court settlement and in these circumstances we do look to settle out of court. However I can assure you this is to minimise the impact on the public purse. The MPS have confirmed that no non-disclosure agreements have been signed with regard the settlement of complaints of racism made by the public. Yours sincerely Stephen Greenhalgh Deputy Mayor for Policing And Crime” As this letter does not provide any statistical information whatsoever, will you now finally state how many i) of the 34 internal cases and ii) how many of 33 cases brought by members of the public referred to in your previous answer on this subject resulted in disciplinary action; iii) of those that resulted in disciplinary action, how many led to the dismissal of the officer or staff member concerned in each of the two types of case? or bearing in mind your answer to Question 2014/0278 “Further to your answer to Question 532 / 2013 on race claims against the police, on what date did MOPAC receive my original question in February 2013; on what date did they pass the request for the information requested to the Metropolitan Police; and on what date did the Met give MOPAC the data provided in the response?” Your written response being “The question was received by MOPAC on 12 February 2013 and the data was requested from the MPS on the same day. An initial response from the MPS was received on 20 February 2013. There was then an ongoing dialogue between MOPAC and the MPS in order to ensure a full and comprehensive response was provided. A final response was submitted by MOPAC on 9 October 2013. MOPAC has new procedures and new arrangements with colleagues which are designed to ensure that a delay of this kind should not occur in future. Will I have to wait nearly another year to get closer to the bottom of the story? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Please see my response to MQ 1020/ 2014.
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Met Police BOGOF offer
Question No: 2014/1262 Andrew Dismore Deputy Mayor Greenhalgh has recently written to borough leaders about the two for one PCs special offer and about extending it to other ranks. Is this an attempt to shunt front line policing costs to boroughs that face massive cuts themselves? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Please see my response to MQ 1027 / 2014. |
Met Police contact point system
Question No: 2014/1263 Andrew Dismore Are you satisfied with the performance of the contact points in Barnet and in Camden? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Yes. The Barnet and Camden Contact Points are open as advertised and their contact details are publicised.
The MPS is conducting a wide-ranging review of all contact points to further monitor the service provided.
The public are encouraged to contact the police using 999 or 101 and generally do so. I am satisfied that contact points are a suitable alternative to this.
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Officers in uniform smoking
Question No: 2014/1264 Andrew Dismore Further to Question 2014/0289, which was itself further to question 2013/5231 “What is your policy towards police officers in uniform smoking on duty in public in the street?” And your response to that question being “The MPS should always uphold the law in relation to smoking in buildings.” Question 2014/0289 being,” Will you now answer the question as asked? Do you approve of police officers in uniform smoking on duty in public in the street? Does this project the image of the Met that you wish to see?” and your written response being “The Metropolitan Police Service should always uphold the law in relation to smoking in buildings.” This is not an answer to the question that was asked, why are you shy of answering the simple question that was asked? Do you or do you not approve of police officers in uniform smoking on duty in public in the street? Does this or does this not project the image of the Met that you wish to see? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Please see my response to MQ 1026 / 2014.
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Camden Police Numbers 1
Question No: 2014/1265 Andrew Dismore As of 31st January 2014, how many full time sworn police officers were there in Camden; how many special constables; how many PCSOs; how many sergeants; how many non-PCSO civilian staff were there; what were the comparable figures for 1st May 2010, and 31st January 2013; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Please see my response to MQ 1022 / 2014. |
Camden Police Numbers 2
Question No: 2014/1266 Andrew Dismore As of 31st January 2014, how many police officers and PCSOs in total were there in Barnet’s safer neighbourhood clusters, what were the comparable figures for the borough’s safer neighbourhood teams in total as at 1st May 2010, and 31st January 2013; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Please see my response to MQ 1023/ 2014.
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Barnet Police Numbers 1
Question No: 2014/1267 Andrew Dismore As of 31st January 2014, how many full time sworn police officers were there in Barnet; how many special constables; how many PCSOs; how many sergeants; how many non PCSO civilian staff were there; what were the comparable figures for 1st May 2010, and 31st January 2013; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Please see my response to MQ 1024 / 2014.
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Barnet Police Numbers 2
Question No: 2014/1268 Andrew Dismore As of 31st January 2014, how many police officers and PCSOs in total were there in Barnet’s safer neighbourhood clusters, what were the comparable figures for the borough’s safer neighbourhood teams in total as at 1st May 2010, and 31st January 2013; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Please see my response to MQ 1025 / 2014.
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Traffic Police
Question No: 2014/1269 Andrew Dismore As of 31st January 2014, how many police officers were there deployed on traffic duties, what were the comparable figures as at 1st May 2010, and 31st January 2013; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner The Budgeted Workforce Target (BWT) of the Traffic Operational Command Unit (OCU) in May 2010 was 681.
The BWT of the Traffic OCU in Jan 2013 was 628
The BWT of the Traffic OCU in Jan 2014 was 592.5
Traffic as separate OCU will merge with TFL’s Safer Transport Command to create the new Roads & Transport Policing Command which will have a BWT of 1647.
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Tasers
Question No: 2014/1270 Andrew Dismore Were any ill effects such as burns or other symptoms or damage to clothing suffered by those against whom tasers have been deployed by officers in Barnet and in Camden? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Please see my response to MQ 5180 and 5184 / 2013. |
Custody suite availability
Question No: 2014/1271 Andrew Dismore On how many occasions in the last 6 months has the custody suite in Kentish Town been unable to accommodate due to capacity issues prisoners who would otherwise have been taken to Kentish Town; and where were those additional prisoners taken to be held in lieu of Kentish Town; how many prisoners were involved in total; and how much extra officer time was devoted to taking prisoners to the alternative location? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner There is no accurate way of measuring the number of occasions that the custody suite has been unable to accommodate prisoners due to capacity issues.
All arresting officers contact Central Cell Allocation on arrest and are directed to the nearest available one with space.
Records currently kept are of numbers of prisoners in custody and this accurately reflects how many detainees have been brought to custody suites.
The time for booking in a prisoner does not vary from borough to borough as the processes are governed by the Police and Criminal Evidence Act.
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Rowan Drive, Colindale
Question No: 2014/1272 Andrew Dismore There are over 40 habitable houses in Rowan Drive, Colindale that have been left empty for months. I understand MOPAC plans to dispose of this area to Middlesex University. Why have not these houses been used as temporary accommodation for those in housing need in the meantime? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner A number of the houses are fundamentally not habitable due to subsidence issues. Of the remaining unoccupied properties, a major and potentially costly refurbishment programme, including reconnection of utilities, would be required to bring them up to standard. MOPAC disposals are based on what provides best value to the taxpayer.
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Camden SNB
Question No: 2014/1273 Andrew Dismore Has the contract to administer Camden SNB been given to Camden Community Police and Police Consultative Group and, if so, was there a tendering process; and if not, why not? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner The decision about who administers the Safer Neighbourhood Board is a matter for local partners.
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Twitter presence
Question No: 2014/1274 Andrew Dismore With SNT numbers reduced and many sergeants now covering two wards, is a Twitter presence a good use of sergeants’ time? Can the Met justify the withdrawal from the front line of these officers to attend ‘new media’ training? Isn’t new technology supposed to free officers from paperwork so that they can spend more time on front-line policing, not give them an additional PR task to undertake? Written response from the Mayor and the Commissioner Local Sergeants use Twitter to support their daily policing activities and to act upon issues the public raise with them directly on Twitter. It also demonstrates the activities undertaken by the MPS and the value derived from it.
Training only takes one hour and is arranged to be as convenient as possible, tailored to locations and shift commitments of all attendees. The provision of training for officers using Twitter ensures effectiveness and promotes professional use of social media.
It is important that the MPS continues to develop and modernise its ability to communicate with Londoners. Through the use of Twitter an officer has the ability to reach hundreds of followers quickly and efficiently.
The Local Policing Model places more officers in neighbourhoods, an additional 2600 posts by 2015, and every ward has a dedicated PC and PCSO.
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Mount Pleasant scheme 11
Question No: 2014/0997
Andrew Dismore
The Mount Pleasant Forum recently hand delivered an open letter to you inviting you for a walk around the site and a chance to meet the local community. Have you read the letter? Have you replied to it? If not, why not?
Written response from the Mayor
My officers have responded to correspondence from Edward Dennison on behalf of the Mount Pleasant Forum, setting out the process and advising that I will be undertaking a site visit in advance of the hearing as set out in: http://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/Hearings%20Procedure.pdf.
Mount Pleasant scheme 12
Question No: 2014/0998
Andrew Dismore
As you will now be taking the decision on the Mount Pleasant scheme yourself , will you accept the invitation of local residents to conduct a site visit with them? If not, why not?
Written response from the Mayor
I will be undertaking a site visit in advance of the public hearing as set out in: http://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/Hearings%20Procedure.pdf.
Mount Pleasant scheme 18
Question No: 2014/1004
Andrew Dismore
Have you walked around and studied the Mount Pleasant scheme site?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 998/ 2014.
Crossrail tunnelling
Question No: 2014/0245
Andrew Dismore
Crossrail are tunnelling under Brooke’s Court EC1N 7RR but now refuse to accept responsibility for the difficulties that have arisen from the noise of trains going under the property at all hours of the night disturbing residents in the basement of this block of flats. Crossrail say that the train noise they have been experiencing is being caused by London Underground trains but the problem did not exist before the tunneling. Will you urgently investigate the matter to find out who is responsible and what can be done to alleviate the problems these residents are experiencing?
Written response from the Mayor
Complaints about noise are taken very seriously by both Crossrail Ltd and London Underground and noise must be kept beneath a maximum level agreed with independent environmental health experts. I understand how disruptive construction noise can be to residents and indeed Crossrail always aims to be as considerate as possible to the people affected by its works and to mitigate any concerns as far as possible. For example, TfL proactively communicates forthcoming works to residents and, in some cases, offers respite in terms of alternative accommodation where appropriate.
A temporary railway is currently being used in the construction of Crossrail tunnels near one of the occupants of a basement flat at Brookes Court. Whilst this operates within the noise limit, some noise might be heard within the property.
This temporary railway is due to be removed by the end of February and, as such, I would expect any disturbance that this is causing to come to an end.
In the course of our investigations, it was found that a number of Central Line trains could also be heard in the flat. I have asked London Underground to urgently examine the condition of the Central Line in this area and carry out any work necessary to minimise noise.
Permitted development rights
Question No: 2014/0975
Andrew Dismore
Do you think it is right to allow offices to be converted into homes without the need for planning permission where the boroughs concerned wish to be exempted from such permitted development rights?
Written response from the Mayor
I have made clear my view that the Government’s changes to Permitted Development rights from offices to residential was not always necessary in London because the planning system was already working to encourage the managed release of identified surplus office sites and space. This was producing some 4,000 new homes a year.
During the process conducted by the DCLG to identify areas suitable for exemption from these Permitted Development rights, I provided strategic support for borough applications for exemptions for office markets of local significance, where these were justified in terms of CLG’s selection criteria. Boroughs can currently make a Direction under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 to remove or restrict the permitted development rights where this is necessary to protect local amenity or the well-being of their area.
I am now working with the boroughs and others to monitor the impact of this policy carefully.
Bus 263
Question No: 2014/0246
Andrew Dismore
A constituent has raised with me her concern as to where bus 263 is parked at Barnet hospital. It is a very difficult walk to and from the main entrance to the hospital, particularly so if one has a walking problem. “We have to go through a big car park or up or down a steep slope.” Can a more convenient place be found for the stop?
Written response from the Mayor
TfL recognises the problem raised by your constituent and has looked for ways in which the situation could be improved. Regrettably, no practical alternative could be found, not least because of the steep slope referred to by your constituent. Of course, we remain open to a solution and would be happy to meet to discuss any proposals.
Finchley Memorial Hospital bus 1
Question No: 2014/0248
Andrew Dismore
As Finchley Memorial Hospital’s new buildings and surrounds were built for bus access and as any visitor to the hospital can see that there is ample space for a bus service to access the site and drop off and pick up passengers why according to your previous answers is the entrance not suitable for buses?
Written response from the Mayor
The hospital forecourt is unfortunately not currently suitable for use by a public bus service due to insufficient space for turning and stopping a bus.
Met Police contact point system 1
Question No: 2014/0268
Andrew Dismore
On average, how many contact point visits per week have been taken up in Barnet in the last 3 months?
Written response from the Mayor
On average there have been 15 contact point visits per week in Barnet over the last three months. All contact points are being assessed as part of the evaluation into the operation of the new Local Policing Model.
Met Police contact point system 2
Question No: 2014/0269
Andrew Dismore
On average, how many contact point visits per week have been taken up in Camden in the last 3 months?
Written response from the Mayor
On average there have been 11 contact point visits per week in Camden over the last three months. All contact points are being assessed as part of the evaluation into the operation of the new Local Policing Model.
Higher education boycotts 1
Question No: 2014/1007
Andrew Dismore
Further to your holding answer to Question 2014/0240, Will you now give a substantive reply to “In view of the importance to London’s economy of the higher education sector, what do you consider the consequences for the success of that sector to be, of the growing trend for student unions to pass anti-Israel academic and/or economic boycott motions?”
Written response from the Mayor
London is a wonderfully diverse city and I am committed to tackling discrimination in London. Universities, higher education institutions, and further education colleges and institutions, have clear legal obligations under the provisions of the Equality Act 2010, to prevent activities from taking place on campus that could potentially discriminate against, harass or victimise others. Similarly, student unions must also consider whether their organised activities are perceived as discriminatory, or in breach of the service provisions of the Act.
London is home to over 45 HEIs, which are an important part of London’s economy. Not only do they aid physical regeneration in various parts of the city, including the Olympic Park, and attract international students, they are the home to world-leading research and development, which attracts FDI and underpins London’s status as a global science hub.
Israel remains a vibrant, democratic economy and a great source of academic research and knowledge and I condemn any one-sided boycott.
The Bishops Avenue
Question No: 2014/0974
Andrew Dismore
The Bishops Avenue in Barnet has become a stockpile of unused and empty mansions worth around £350m. Will you underwrite action by Barnet council to repossess one or more of the empty homes on the Bishops Avenue to help meet housing need ? And will you lobby actively for a mansion tax on such empty homes to ensure the owners bring them back into use?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 1145/ 2014.
London University Observatory 2
Question No: 2014/0977
Andrew Dismore
New and intrusive main street lighting over the northbound A41 bus-shelter lighting has been installed just outside the London University Observatory premises and is causing serious light pollution affecting their work. Will you ensure that action is taken as soon as possible to eliminate or ameliorate this new source of light pollution that affects the Observatory’s work?
Written response from the Mayor
Please see my response to MQ 976 / 2014.
Saracens games and parking
Question No: 2014/0979
Andrew Dismore
Further to your answer to Question 2013/5161 “Can TfL arrange for the electronic signs on the A1/A41 on days when Saracens are playing at Allianz Park Copthall Stadium to display that fact, to help ease congestion and parking problems?” Your answer being “Yes, TfL can use electric signage on the A1/A41 when the Saracens are playing at Allianz Park Copthall Stadium. TfL will also meet with the club, borough and traffic management company and suggest they use static signs or mobile electronic signs as well”; What progress has been made towards ensuring these various arrangements start at least before the end of this season?
Written response from the Mayor
TfL has already been in contact with Saracens RFC regarding its event-day traffic management arrangements and the club has advised that it is happy with the traffic and transport on event days and that there are no specific issues with traffic flows.
The club also confirmed that it has already conducted a comprehensive review of its event-day traffic management arrangements, which did not indicate any traffic-flow issues in the stadium’s area.
It was therefore concluded that the use of Variable Message Signs (VMS) signage on the A1/A41/A406 is not necessary, given the size of the Allianz Park and the relatively small traffic impact caused on event days.
TfL does not use VMS for match days at the Emirates, White Hart Lane or Stamford Bridge, all of which have far larger capacities than Allianz Park. Currently, TfL only uses VMS for events at Wembley and Twickenham stadiums, which have capacities of 90,000 and 82,000 respectively, so it would be difficult to justify their usage for events at Allianz Park, which has a capacity of just 10,000 and a minimal traffic impact by comparison.
TfL will continue to engage with Saracens RFC and LB Barnet on this matter.
Secret HS2 report
Question No: 2014/0986
Andrew Dismore
Will you join with The Commons Transport Committee in asking Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin to make public the information and report gleaned by the Major Projects Authority on the HS2 rail project?
Written response from the Mayor
This is really a matter for the Department for Transport. I suggest you contact the Government directly.
Increased aircraft noise
Question No: 2014/1006
Andrew Dismore
Further to your answer of 18-Dec-2013 “Yes. I received a reply from Colin Matthews on 11 December. Both he and National Air Traffic Services (NATS) report that there have been no flightpath or airspace changes in the vicinity of Barnet. This reinforces my view that Heathrow’s negative effects are felt far and wide across London, and many miles outside the 57dB noise contour the airport claims best represents those affected. I was concerned to read Mr Matthews’ statement that ‘Heathrow impacts far fewer London residents than has been the case in the past’. While this may be true in the longer term, the Government’s own figures show that the number affected has increased in the last 10 years. I intend to respond to Mr Matthews to make these matters clear, and am more than happy to publish in full any correspondence I have with the airport and NATS on this vital matter.” Have you now responded to Mr Matthews, has he now replied and will you now make public your correspondence?
Written response from the Mayor
I have replied to Mr Matthews’ letter of 11 December and I have in recent days received his reply to that letter. I am considering my response and I will be happy to publish the series of correspondence in due course.
Subway at Beaufort Gardens NW4
Question No: 2014/0969
Andrew Dismore
When was the last deep clean of the subway at Beaufort Gardens NW4? When is the next scheduled? Do you really believe that is sufficiently frequent given the mess that accrues there?
Written response from the Mayor
Cleaning of the subway is the responsibility of the London Borough of Barnet under its Environmental Protection Act (EPA) obligation. The EPA does not specify how frequently the borough should clean the subway, only that it should be kept clean from rubbish.
TfL does however own and maintain the structural elements of the subway, and will usually do a deep clean of its own before any structural inspection is undertaken. TfL undertook deep cleans on 30/06/2013 prior to a structural inspection and again on 06/01/2014 following some localised flooding in the area.
Subway at Hendon Central NW
Question No: 2014/0970
Andrew Dismore
When was the last deep clean of the subway at Hendon Central NW4? When is the next scheduled? Do you really believe that is sufficiently frequent given the mess that accrues there?
Written response from the Mayor
Cleaning of the subway is the responsibility of the London Borough of Barnet under its Environmental Protection Act (EPA) obligation. The EPA does not specify how frequently the borough should clean the subway, only that it should be kept clean from rubbish.
TfL does however own and maintain the structural elements of the subway, and will usually do a deep clean of its own before any structural inspection is undertaken. TfL undertook deep cleans on 29/06/2013 prior to a structural inspection and again on 06/01/2014 following some localised flooding in the area.
Subway at Hendon War Memorial NW4
Question No: 2014/0971
Andrew Dismore
When was the last deep clean of the subway at Hendon War Memorial NW4? When is the next scheduled? Do you really believe that is sufficiently frequent given the mess that accrues there?
Written response from the Mayor
Cleaning of the subway is the responsibility of the London Borough of Barnet under its Environmental Protection Act (EPA) obligation. The EPA does not specify how frequently the borough should clean the subway, only that it should be kept clean from rubbish.
TfL does however own and maintain the structural elements of the subway, and will usually do a deep clean of its own before any structural inspection is undertaken. TfL undertook deep cleans on 30/06/2013 prior to a structural inspection. TfL also undertook additional cleans on 08/11/2013 as a prelude to Remembrance Sunday and on 05/12/2013 following some debris unfortunately being deposited following a routine drainage clean.
bus stop in Torrington Park N12
Question No: 2014/1495 Andrew Dismore The bus stop in Torrington Park N12 going east from the High Road is too close to the junction. When buses stop, traffic cannot get either in or out of Torrington Road, causing a traffic jam, and pedestrians cannot cross safely at the corner either. Will you consider moving the bus stop a short distance further east in Torrington Road to resolve these problems? Written response from the Mayor TfL will discuss this with the London Borough of Barnet and will look at an appropriate location for installing a substantive bus stop or relocating the existing hail and ride publicity point on this section of the Torrington Park.
Bus route 383 operates along Torrington Park on a “hail-and-ride” basis, that is, there are no fixed stops and buses can pick up passengers at any safe place. TfL does, however, provide publicity points along such routes and these tend to be in places where passengers congregate to wait for buses.
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43 bus stop next to Martock Gardens
Question No: 2014/1496 Andrew Dismore A constituent has complained to me about the 43 bus stop next to Martock Gardens, N11 where they live. Bus drivers are not turning off their engines, when buses are parked up at the end of the route at this stop, causing noise nuisance especially at night; passengers deposit litter in their front garden and cut across the front garden to catch the bus damaging their tree hedging in the process; and their wall was damaged by a bus for which they still await compensation. What will you do about these matters, and will you consider moving the terminus for the route for example to New Southgate station which would provide a link to the Overground and terminate the route in a non- residential area. Written response from the Mayor The bus operator, Metroline, has been asked to take whatever measures are necessary to ensure that bus drivers are switching their engines off when at the stand. In addition, covert observations have been arranged at the bus stand to ensure compliance.
TfL is unable to take any action regarding members of the public dropping litter; this is the responsibility of the council and this should be reported to the Borough.
It would not be appropriate for me to comment on any case where compensation is being sought, as this is a matter between the bus Operator Metroline and the local resident.
At the present time, TfL has no plans to move the terminating point of route 43 from Martock Gardens.
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Oyster card
Question No: 2014/1497 Andrew Dismore How long do you consider it reasonable for a constituent to wait for a refund on an Oyster card of a deceased child when the death certificate is provided ; and why is it taking so long to refund my constituent, details of whom TfL have? Written response from the Mayor TfL is very sorry that the delay in providing a refund has added further distress to your constituent at a very difficult time.
It appears that a letter from TfL replying to the request for a refund was not received by your constituent.
I understand that TfL has now been in touch with your constituent and that the matter has been resolved.
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Edgware Bus Station
Question No: 2014/1498 Andrew Dismore When will you sort out Edgware Bus Station? The automatic doors of the seven exits at Edgware Bus Station have mostly been out of order, for as long as I can remember. There is no heating here either and the temperature is very cold, especially in the early mornings. Written response from the Mayor As a matter of urgency TfL will attend to any defects to the automatic doors at Edgware Bus Station.
TfL has considered installing heating at bus stations, but concluded that the cost would outweigh the benefit as passenger dwell time is relatively short.
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drain cover opposite 300 Finchley Road
Question No: 2014/1499 Andrew Dismore The drain cover opposite 300 Finchley Road, southbound carriageway is seriously damaged and collapsing and is a serious hazard especially to cyclists. Why is it taking so long to fix? Written response from the Mayor Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly. |
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pelican crossing on Colindeep Lane
Question No: 2014/1500 Andrew Dismore Regarding the planned pelican crossing on Colindeep Lane, Barnet Council say that the TfL signal design is pending and it does not appear the timescales they have been given by TfL are compatible with Barnet’s aspirations. Without the TfL signal design, the pelican crossing cannot go ahead. As the proposal has become unexpectedly drawn out, it is now impinging on Barnet’s ability to put the scheme on programme as Barnet cannot do this until such a time DPR approval is gained. Further, as it is standard practice for all contractors to give 3 months notice to gain permits to commence the work on site, there is now a very slim chance that the crossing will be built before the end of the financial year. What is the reason for the delay and will you get your finger out to make sure the work is done promptly to protect the many schoolchildren who are dependent on crossing this road safely? Written response from the Mayor TfL understands the importance the London Borough of Barnet places on this scheme and is continuing to work collaboratively with the Borough to ensure prompt delivery of this crossing.
Barnet’s completed scheme submission was received by TfL on 14 February 2014 and TfL has rapidly designed the signals specification on the Borough’s behalf and issued it for construction. A typical turnaround time for approving signal designs is three months but, in this case, TfL was aware of the urgency and fast tracked the application through the design stage in a matter of weeks.
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July 7th bombing memorial service
Question No: 2014/1501 Andrew Dismore Why are you apparently ignoring the victims of July 7th bombing by refusing to contribute a mere £5,000 for this year’s memorial service? Written response from the Mayor Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly. |
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Camden Police Numbers 1
Question No: 2014/1502 Andrew Dismore As of 28th February 2014, how many full time sworn police officers were there in Camden; how many special constables; how many PCSOs; how many sergeants; how many non PCSO civilian staff were there; what were the comparable figures for 1st May 2010, and 28th February 2013; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Written response from the Mayor The strengths for the relevant dates are set out in the table below:
At present there are no confirmed target strengths for 2015. Borough policing is supported by a range of other specialists resources provided by the MPS overall, which are not captured in the above figures. Comparisons cannot be made between the Local Policing Model now in place and previous structures in place at borough or ward level.
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Camden Police Numbers 2
Question No: 2014/1503 Andrew Dismore As of 28th February 2014, how many police officers and PCSOs in total were there in Camden’s safer neighbourhood clusters, what were the comparable figures for the borough’s safer neighbourhood teams in total as at 1st May 2010, and 28th February 2013; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Written response from the Mayor The strengths for the relevant dates are set out in the table below:
At present there are no confirmed target strengths for 2015. However, under the Local Policing Model, Camden will have 157 posts in Safer Neighbourhood teams and 36 PCSOs in Safer Neighbourhood teams.
Comparisons cannot be made between the Local Policing Model now in place and previous structures in place at borough or ward level.
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Barnet Police Numbers 1
Question No: 2014/1504 Andrew Dismore As of 28th February 2014, how many full time sworn police officers were there in Barnet; how many special constables; how many PCSOs; how many sergeants; how many non PCSO civilian staff were there; what were the comparable figures for 1st May 2010, and 28th February 2013; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Written response from the Mayor The strengths for the relevant dates are set out in the table below:
At present the MPS have no confirmed target strengths for 2015. Borough policing is supported by a range of other specialists resources provided by the MPS overall, which are not captured in the above figures. Comparisons cannot be made between the Local Policing Model now in place and previous structures in place at borough or ward level.
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Barnet Police Numbers 2
Question No: 2014/1505 Andrew Dismore As of 28th February 2014, how many police officers and PCSOs in total were there in Barnet’s safer neighbourhood clusters, what were the comparable figures for the borough’s safer neighbourhood teams in total as at 1st May 2010, and 28th February 2013; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Written response from the Mayor The strengths for the relevant dates are set out in the table below:
At present there are no confirmed target strengths for 2015. However, under the Local Policing Model, Barnet will have 135 police officers and 42 PCSOs in Safer Neighbourhood teams.
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Sanctioned Detection rate 1
Question No: 2014/1506 Andrew Dismore What is the Sanctioned Detection rate achieved by Barnet borough police for each of the last 12 months (not year on year but for each of the months concerned)? Written response from the Mayor The sanction detection rate in London is too low, but by making better use of technology and forensics and engaging more effectively with victims and witnesses I think we can make progress on meeting the Commissioner and my desire to make improvements.
The table below shows the Total Notifiable Offences Sanction Detection Rate in Barnet for the last 12 months.
The average over 12 months is 21.2% which is a 4.3 per cent improvement compared to the average for the same time period last year.
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Sanctioned Detection rate 2
Question No: 2014/1507 Andrew Dismore What is the Sanctioned Detection rate achieved by Camden borough police for each of the last 12 months (not year on year but for each of the months concerned)? Written response from the Mayor The sanction detection rate in London is too low, but by making better use of technology and forensics and engaging more effectively with victims and witnesses I think we can make progress on meeting the Commissioner and my desire to make improvements. The table below shows the Total Notifiable Offences Sanction Detection Rate in Camden for the last 12 months.
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Sanctioned Detection rate 3
Question No: 2014/1508 Andrew Dismore Please provide a table or graph ranking each of the boroughs’ performance in Sanctioned Detection rates for each of the last 3 months performance (not year on year but for each of the months concerned) Written response from the Mayor The sanction detection rate in London is too low, but by making better use of technology and forensics and engaging more effectively with victims and witnesses I think we can make progress on meeting the Commissioner and my desire to make improvements.
Appendix 2 provides the TNO Sanction Detection rates by borough for the last 3 months.
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emergency I and S calls 1
Question No: 2014/1509 Andrew Dismore What was the actual monthly performance (not year on year but for each of the months concerned) of Barnet borough in responding to emergency I and S calls for each of the last 3 months? Written response from the Mayor Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly. |
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emergency I and S calls 2
Question No: 2014/1510 Andrew Dismore What was the actual monthly performance ( not year on year but for each of the months concerned) of Camden borough in responding to emergency I and S calls for each of the last 3 months? Written response from the Mayor The table below shows I and S Call performance in Camden Borough for the last three months. When a call is graded as immediate response (I Call), the MPS target is to arrive on scene within 15 minutes from when the call is received. For Significant grades (S Call) it is 60 minutes.
As can be seen in the table below, Camden is responding quicker to Immediate Calls – with the percentage of I Calls attended within 15 minutes increasing by 1.9 percentage points over the last three months. Camden is also responding quicker to Significant Priority Calls – with the percentage of S Calls attended within 1 hour increasing by 2 percentage points over the last three months.
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emergency I and S calls 3
Question No: 2014/1511 Andrew Dismore Please provide a table or graph ranking each of the boroughs’ performance in responding to emergency I and S calls for each of the last 3 months performance (not year on year but for each of the months concerned) Written response from the Mayor The table below shows I and S Call performance for the last three months in rank order for all boroughs within the MPS.
When a call is graded as immediate response (I Call), the MPS target is to arrive on scene within 15 minutes from when the call is received. For Significant grades (S Call) it is 60 minutes.
As can be seen, the MPS is on average responding quicker to Immediate Calls – with 30 of the 32 boroughs achieving an I Call attendance of 90% or more within 15 minutes in the last month. The majority of boroughs are also responding quicker to Significant Priority Calls – with 29 of the 32 boroughs achieving an S Call attendance of 90% or more within 60 minutes in the last month.
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burglaries in Barnet
Question No: 2014/1512 Andrew Dismore For each month since 1/1/12 please indicate the number of a) residential and b) commercial burglaries in Barnet Written response from the Mayor
When comparing the 12 months March 2013 – February 2014 to the period March 2012 – February 2013 , Residential Burglaries show a decrease of -21.4% and Non –Residential Burglaries a decrease of -5.63%.
Note: Non-Residential Burglary is the theft, or attempted theft, from a building where access is not authorised. The building is not fit or intended for habitation e.g. a commercial property. Be aware that the classification also includes burglaries of buildings such as sheds.
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burglaries in Camden
Question No: 2014/1513 Andrew Dismore For each month since 1/1/12 please indicate the number of a) residential and b) commercial burglaries in Camden Written response from the Mayor
When comparing the 12 months March 2013 – February 2014 to the period March 2012 – February 2013, Residential Burglaries show an increase of 0.33% and Non –Residential Burglaries an increase of 12.75%.
Note: Non-Residential Burglary is the theft, or attempted theft, from a building where access is not authorised. The building is not fit or intended for habitation e.g. a commercial property. Be aware that the classification also includes burglaries of buildings such as sheds.
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broadband rollout in Camden 1
Question No: 2014/1514 Andrew Dismore What are you doing to facilitate broadband rollout in Camden? Written response from the Mayor Later this month I am rolling out, across London, the SME broadband voucher scheme. This will allow SME businesses, charities and non-profits to claim up to £3,000 for high speed broadband connections, usually of 30Mbit/s or more.
Taking advantage of this voucher scheme will give businesses improved reliability of service, better communication with customers and staff, reduced costs through more efficient working, improved data storage and accessibility and higher speed upload and download for large files.
Businesses wishing to claim these vouchers should visit http://www.london.gov.uk/broadband for more information.
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broadband rollout in Barnet 1
Question No: 2014/1515 Andrew Dismore What are you doing to facilitate broadband rollout in Barnet ? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 1514 /2014.
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broadband rollout in Barnet 2
Question No: 2014/1516 Andrew Dismore Are you able to tell me what percentage of properties in Barnet will be a) connected and b) connectable to broadband when the rollout is expected to be completed shortly? Written response from the Mayor This information is not currently held by the GLA. Please contact BT’s General Manager for London, Andrew Campling, to request this information.
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broadband rollout in Camden 2
Question No: 2014/1517 Andrew Dismore Are you able to tell me what percentage of properties in Camden will be a) connected and b) connectable to broadband when the rollout is expected to be completed shortly? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 1516 / 2014.
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broadband rollout Mill Hill
Question No: 2014/1518 Andrew Dismore Residents in Mill Hill have complained to me about the difficulty of getting answers from BT concerning broadband rollout in the Mill Hill Village area and off the Ridgeway. Will you intervene to put pressure on BT to respond to residents’ reasonable expectations of responses from BT? Written response from the Mayor I understand that all of the exchanges in the Mill Hill have now been upgraded to be able to provide superfast broadband speeds. However the residents in Mill Hill may be experiencing other problems specific to their situation that mean they are unable to receive superfast broadband.
Small businesses and charities based in the area will be able to apply for vouchers for high speed broadband connections under the SME broadband voucher scheme which I will be launching London wide later this month. More information can be found on London.gov.uk/broadband. My team regularly meet with service providers, including BT, to discuss the future provision of superfast broadband and will be happy to raise this issue.
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Human rights of LGBT people
Question No: 2014/1519 Andrew Dismore We know from research conducted by YouGov and Stonewall that seven in ten people believe Britain has a moral and social responsibility to challenge human rights abuses against lesbian, gay and bisexual people abroad. As a representative of what you have called ‘one of the most LGBT friendly cities on earth’, what conversations have you had overseas about defending the human rights of LGBT people? Written response from the Mayor I am proud that London is a fantastically diverse city, with all Londoners, regardless of their age, sexuality, religion, gender or race, able to benefit from the progress London has made over the past few years.
In December 2013 I provided a message in support of the Everyone Matters global diversity and dignity campaign, which is expected to reach 53 million people globally in its first year. The purpose of this high profile campaign, which culminates with the inaugural Everyone Matters Day on 2 April 2014, is to ensure that everyone has the right to be who they are, and every single human being is treated with dignity and respect.
In terms of my visits to promote London abroad, I believe that we can better challenge prejudice through engagement. Isolation will not achieve change. |
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Human rights of LGBT people 2
Question No: 2014/1520 Andrew Dismore Research from YouGov and Stonewall shows that half of people believe Britain has a responsibility to protect people who come to the UK fleeing persecution in their home countries because they are lesbian, gay or bisexual. What are you doing to make sure that LGBT people who come to London to escape violence and discrimination are treated with respect and compassion? Written response from the Mayor I am proud that London is a fantastically diverse city, with all Londoners, regardless of their age, sexuality, religion, gender or race, able to benefit from the progress London has made over the past few years.
I agree that Britain has a responsibility to protect lesbian, gay and bisexual people who have a well-founded fear of persecution. Britain, and London in particular, already has a long and proud tradition of welcoming refugees, including many LGBT people, fleeing persecution in other parts of the world.
Since coming into office I have sponsored a Mayor’s Refugee Integration Strategy for London that aims to ensure that those who come to London as refugees are treated with respect and compassion.
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Human rights of LGBT people 3
Question No: 2014/1521 Andrew Dismore British businesses have an important role to play in promoting human rights in the countries in which they operate. What representations have you made to multinational businesses in London about work they can do to promote human rights, including those of rights of LGBT people, worldwide? Written response from the Mayor I am proud that London is a fantastically diverse city, with all Londoners, regardless of their age, sexuality, religion, gender or race, able to benefit from the progress London has made over the past few years.
For the past two years I have welcomed international delegates attending the Out on the Street: Europe LGBT Leadership Summit to London.
The aim of the Out on the Street Summit is to engage international business leaders in discussions around attracting for top talent and enhancing the careers of LGBT leaders.
Members of Out on the Street realize that often corporations and their policies can lead to government and societal change, and can contribute to the bottom line by driving innovation and forward thinking ideas.
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Subway at Beaufort Gardens NW4
Question No: 2014/1442 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0969, when was the last deep clean of the subway at Beaufort Gardens NW4? When is the next scheduled? Do you really believe that is sufficiently frequent given the mess that accrues there? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 969 / 2014. |
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Subway at Hendon Central
Question No: 2014/1443 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0970, when was the last deep clean of the subway at Hendon Central NW4? When is the next scheduled? Do you really believe that is sufficiently frequent given the mess that accrues there? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 970 / 2014. |
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Subway at Hendon War Memorial NW4
Question No: 2014/1444 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0971, when was the last deep clean of the subway at Hendon War Memorial NW4? When is the next scheduled? Do you really believe that is sufficiently frequent given the mess that accrues there? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 971 / 2014. |
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The Bishops Avenue
Question No: 2014/1445 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0974, the Bishops Avenue in Barnet has become a stockpile of unused and empty mansions worth around £350m. Will you underwrite action by Barnet council to repossess one or more of the empty homes on the Bishops Avenue to help meet housing need? And will you lobby actively for a mansion tax on such empty homes to ensure the owners bring them back into use? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor I have not been approached by Barnet Council on this matter.
I oppose a Mansion Tax, which would be yet another tax that hits London hardest, and some parts of the country not at all, and funnels all the revenues to the Treasury.
Instead, I encourage boroughs to make use of local solutions, such as the measures in the Local Government Finance Act 2012 to increase council tax on long-term empty properties.
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Permitted development rights
Question No: 2014/1446 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0975, do you think it is right to allow offices to be converted into homes without the need for planning permission where the boroughs concerned wish to be exempted from such permitted development rights? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written answer from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 975 / 2014. |
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London University Observatory
Question No: 2014/1447 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0977, new and intrusive main street lighting over the northbound A41 bus-shelter lighting has been installed just outside the London University Observatory premises and is causing serious light pollution affecting their work. Will you ensure that action is taken as soon as possible to eliminate or ameliorate this new source of light pollution that affects the Observatory’s work? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 976 and 977 / 2014. |
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Saracens games and parking
Question No: 2014/1448 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0979, further to your answer to Question 2013/5161 “Can TfL arrange for the electronic signs on the A1/A41 on days when Saracens are playing at Allianz Park Copthall Stadium to display that fact, to help ease congestion and parking problems?” Your answer being “Yes, TfL can use electric signage on the A1/A41 when the Saracens are playing at Allianz Park Copthall Stadium. TfL will also meet with the club, borough and traffic management company and suggest they use static signs or mobile electronic signs as well”; What progress has been made towards ensuring these various arrangements start at least before the end of this season? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 979 / 2014. |
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HS2 ( 1)
Question No: 2014/1449 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0984, do you agree that the proposed use of the North London line for the HS2 /HS1 link is misconceived and that this stretch of the route should be tunnelled? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly. |
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HS2 (2)
Question No: 2014/1450 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0985, what representations have you made to a) the Government b) HS2 about the proposed HS2/ HS1 link? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly. |
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Secret HS2 report
Question No: 2014/1451 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/0986, will you join with The Commons Transport Committee in asking Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin to make public the information and report gleaned by the Major Projects Authority on the HS2 rail project? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 986 / 2014.
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Increased aircraft noise
Question No: 2014/1452 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/1006, further to your answer of 18-Dec-2013 “Yes. I received a reply from Colin Matthews on 11 December. Both he and National Air Traffic Services (NATS) report that there have been no flightpath or airspace changes in the vicinity of Barnet. This reinforces my view that Heathrow’s negative effects are felt far and wide across London, and many miles outside the 57dB noise contour the airport claims best represents those affected. I was concerned to read Mr Matthews’ statement that ‘Heathrow impacts far fewer London residents than has been the case in the past’. While this may be true in the longer term, the Government’s own figures show that the number affected has increased in the last 10 years. I intend to respond to Mr Matthews to make these matters clear, and am more than happy to publish in full any correspondence I have with the airport and NATS on this vital matter.” Have you now responded to Mr Matthews, has he now replied and will you now make public your correspondence? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 1006 / 2014. |
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Higher education boycotts 1
Question No: 2014/1453 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/1007, further to your holding answer to Question 2014/0240, Will you now give a substantive reply to “In view of the importance to London’s economy of the higher education sector, what do you consider the consequences for the success of that sector to be, of the growing trend for student unions to pass anti-Israel academic and/or economic boycott motions?” Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 1007 / 2014. |
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Higher education boycotts 1
Question No: 2014/1454 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/1007, further to your holding answer to Question 2014/0240, Will you now give a substantive reply to “In view of the importance to London’s economy of the higher education sector, what do you consider the consequences for the success of that sector to be, of the growing trend for student unions to pass anti-Israel academic and/or economic boycott motions?” Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor This question is a duplicate to MQ 1453 / 2014. |
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Higher education boycotts 2
Question No: 2014/1455 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/1008, further to your holding answer to Question 2014/0241, Will you now give a substantive reply to “In view of the importance to London’s economy of the higher education sector, what representations have you made to university authorities and to student unions about the growing trend for student unions to pass anti Israel academic and/or economic boycott motions?” Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 1007 / 2014. |
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Anti Semitism on campus 1
Question No: 2014/1456 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/1009, further to your holding answer to Question 2014/0242, Will you now give a substantive reply to “In view of the importance to London’s economy of the higher education sector, what do you consider the consequences for the success of that sector to be, of anti Semitism on campus?” Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 1007 / 2014. |
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Anti Semitism on campus 2
Question No: 2014/1457 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/1010, further to your holding answer to Question 2014/0243, Will you now give a substantive reply to “In view of the importance to London’s economy of the higher education sector, what representations have you made to university authorities and to student unions about anti Semitism on campus?” Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 1007 / 2014. |
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Cycling and pedestrian casualties
Question No: 2014/1458 Andrew Dismore Further to your holding answer to Question No: 2014/1014, further to your holding answer to Question 2014/0251, will you now give a substantive reply to “Further to Question 2013/5120 “How many cyclists and how many pedestrians have been killed and how many seriously injured in London, in Barnet, and in Camden this calendar year to date?” Will you now provide a substantive response for the last calendar year, 2013? Will you now give a substantive reply? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 5120/ 2013. |
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Stirling Corner – cycling round the junction
Question No: 2014/1459 Andrew Dismore Further to your answer to Question No: 2014/1015, further to your answer to Question 2014/0258 and further to your answer to Question 4161/2012 “I cycle the whole of London. When I next do Stirling Corner I will give you a report” ; And your answers to questions 261/2013, 522/2013, 1041/2013, 1464/2013 and Question 2039/2013 and Question 2497 / 2013 referring back to your non- answers to my invitation to you to attempt to go round Stirling Corner on your bike, and your repeated answer “I have nothing to add to MQ 4161/2012.”, and your answer to Question 3083 / 2013, “I cycle the whole of London and when I next pass through Stirling Corner I will be sure to give you a report”; and your answer to Question 2013/3698- “Since my last response to you on this matter “I cycle the whole of London and when I next pass through Stirling Corner I will be sure to give you a report”, I have not cycled through Stirling Corner. However, when I next pass through Stirling Corner, I will be sure to give you a report.” And further to Question 2013/5236- “Have you ever cycled round Stirling Corner? Have you cycled round Stirling Corner since you promised to do so; if not why not; and if not when do you expect to cycle round Stirling Corner? Or is it that you have no intention of doing so in the foreseeable future and just want to pretend you are a keen cyclist with cyclists’ concerns at heart and have no intention of honouring your commitment to do so, so that your original answer can be seen as nothing more than a fobbing off exercise? Or are you frightened of doing so, as it is too dangerous? Why do you have nothing to add? Aren’t you embarrassed by your non responses when reminded of your promise? And to Question 2013/4184 “I have nothing further to add to my previous answers to this question. It costs around £70 to respond to each Mayor’s Question and this question has now been asked 10 times.” “Why have you nothing to add? Are you not ashamed of your continual failure to honour this commitment? Why are you trying to avoid legitimate scrutiny of your work by suggesting that questions such as this that you find difficult and embarrassing should not be repeatedly asked until you provide a proper reply?” Your answer being- “This is the 11th time you have asked this question. I have not cycled through Stirling Corner. However, when I next cycle through Stirling Corner, I will be sure to give you a report.” Did you pass by Sterling Corner on your recent visit to Hendon? Have you cycled round the roundabout yet? If not, why not? Your written response being “This is the 12th time you have asked this question. Please see my response to MQ5236 / 2013″ Isn’t it about time you honoured your commitment to ride round the junction on your bike, assuming you have yet to do so, so you don’t have to keep answering this question which reveals your failure to honour your pledge? Your answer being: Your question could have simply read “Have you cycled around Stirling Corner?” and my response to that question is “Please see my response to MQ 4161/2012″. Have you ridden round String corner yet on your bike; if not why not; and is your answer above an indication of the embarrassment you feel about being reminded about yet another broken pledge? Written response from the Mayor Officers are drafting a response which will be sent shortly. |
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Officers in uniform smoking
Question No: 2014/1460 Andrew Dismore Further to Question No: 2014/1026, further to Question 2014/0289, which was further to question 2013/5231 “What is your policy towards police officers in uniform smoking on duty in public in the street?” And your response to that question being “The MPS should always uphold the law in relation to smoking in buildings.” Question 2014/0289 being, ” Will you now answer the question as asked? Do you approve of police officers in uniform smoking on duty in public in the street? Does this project the image of the Met that you wish to see?” and your written response being “The Metropolitan Police Service should always uphold the law in relation to smoking in buildings.” which is not an answer to the question that was asked, why are you shy of answering the simple question that was asked? Do you or do you not approve of police officers in uniform smoking on duty in public in the street? Does this or does this not project the image of the Met that you wish to see? Your answer being: “The MPS always uphold the law in relation to smoking in buildings. Police Officers are actively discouraged from smoking at work whilst in uniform.” How are officers discouraged and do you agree with me that it presents a poor image and role model of police officers if they are seen smoking in the street when on duty in uniform? Written response from the Mayor Please see my response to MQ 1026 / 2014. |
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Swiss Cottage Crown Post Office
Question No: 2014/1461 Andrew Dismore Further to Question No: 2014/0983, the Post Office has just officially announced that Swiss Cottage Crown Post Office will be transferred to WH Smith on Thursday, 27th February; the Crown Office will close at the end of business on Wednesday, 26th February at 5.30 p.m. Do you feel this decision of the post office to close this important crown post office will adversely impact on postal services for Londoners? Your answer being: “Please see my response to MQs 1495 and 2109/ 2013. I have corresponded with the Government on this issue and I will continue to monitor that the Post Office reforms are being developed in a way that preserves reasonable access to these services for Londoners.” Will you publish your correspondence with the Government about Swiss Cottage Crown Post Office and if not, why not? Written response from the Mayor On 5 August 2013 I wrote to Jo Swinson MP, Under-Secretary of State at BIS with responsibility for postal reforms, regarding the postal reforms and also the London Living Wage. My correspondence did not specifically refer to Swiss Cottage, nor to any other specific post office. As I have made clear, my officers have been monitoring the proposed changes to the postal service in London and I am satisfied that Londoners will continue to receive a good postal service. |
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Barnet Police Numbers 3
Question No: 2014/1462 Andrew Dismore Further to Question No: 2014/1025, as of 31st December 2013 , how many police officers and PCSOs in total were there in Barnet’s safer neighbourhood clusters, what were the comparable figures for the borough’s safer neighbourhood teams in total as at 1st May 2010, and 31st December 2012; and what do you expect the figures to be on 1st May 2015? Your response being: “The strengths for the relevant dates are set out in the table below:
Under the Local Policing Model, Barnet is currently scheduled to have 149 police officers and 42 PCSOs in Safer Neighbourhood teams. The growth in officer numbers in the MPS to accommodate the Local Policing Model overall should be in place by March 2015.” How do you explain the discrepancy between your answer and the figures given at the MOPAC roadshow in February 2014, which stated that currently there were 124 neighbourhood officers and the target for 2015 was 135 neighbourhood officers? Who is telling the truth, you or your deputy mayor for policing? Written response from the Mayor As stated in the Police and Crime Plan, Barnet will have 135 officers in safer neighbourhoods. These figures are correct.
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