"A leading think tank has recommended a number of organisational changes to local governments in order to reinvigorate democracy across the country. A report from Re:State recommends a major change to the number of London boroughs, as well as electing an official opposition mayor. The report, informed by interviews with a host of senior political figures, proposes that the existing 32 boroughs be drastically cut to between 10 to 12 local authorities."
"The report's authors argue that the current structure acts as an impediment to efficient service delivery, and that reducing the number of authorities would bring London in line with the rest of the country. They also state that the leader of the largest party not affiliated with the mayor in the assembly should be given their own office and become an opposition mayor, a role similar to that of the leader of the opposition in the House of Commons."
Current London governance comprises 32 boroughs that impede efficient service delivery and deviate from structures used elsewhere in the country. Consolidating boroughs to roughly 10–12 local authorities aims to improve operational efficiency and align London with other major cities. Leaders of those larger local authorities would hold official roles on the London Assembly, which requires greater power to enhance scrutiny. An elected opposition mayor with a dedicated office would provide clear political accountability akin to opposition leadership in national government. Additional fiscal powers for the mayoralty and retention of locally raised revenues, including the tourism levy, would boost city autonomy.
Read at www.standard.co.uk
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