The Finance Committee meeting scheduled for 13 January 2026 was set to cover a range of financial matters, including updates on local government funding, the Chamberlain's business plan, and a review of financial controls. The committee was also scheduled to discuss the Connect to Work programme and receive an update on departmental risk management.

Finance Committee's Forward Plan

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on its forward workplan for 2026. This plan outlines the key topics and reports that the Finance Committee is expected to consider throughout the year, providing a roadmap for its activities.

Local Government Provisional Settlements Update

A report from the Chamberlain was scheduled to provide an update on the provisional local government finance settlement for 2026/27. This would detail the anticipated funding position for the City Fund, taking into account significant changes in how local authorities are allocated funding. The report was expected to highlight discussions with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) regarding the unique funding arrangements for the City Corporation, particularly concerning the difference between its resident and daily commuter populations, and services provided on behalf of London or the nation.

Draft Chamberlain's Business Plan: 2026-29

The committee was scheduled to consider the draft Business Plan for the Chamberlain's Department for the period 2026-29. This multi-year plan aligns with the Corporate Plan 2024-2029 and focuses on three priority workstreams: Operational Excellence, Future Ready Digital by Design, and Entrepreneurial Spirit. These are complemented by cross-cutting themes of Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EEDI) and Innovative Collaboration. The plan details key objectives, performance measures, and timelines for achieving departmental goals.

Review of Financial Controls (Internal Audit Update)

An update from Internal Audit on financial controls was scheduled for discussion. This report was expected to provide an overview of the effectiveness of the City of London Corporation's internal control framework and outline actions being taken to embed consistent good practice. The report would reference the Institute of Internal Auditors' Three Lines Model and detail ongoing efforts to strengthen the control environment through audit plan coverage, targeted interventions, and collaboration with the Finance Leadership Group.

Connect to Work - Change of Named Contracting Body

The committee was scheduled to receive information regarding the Connect to Work programme. This programme, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), aims to help economically inactive and disabled people find employment. Due to the government's new 'Integrated Settlement' approach in London, the contract is being moved from the DWP to the Greater London Authority (GLA) as a successor body. The report was expected to confirm that all other aspects of the contract, including funding levels and targets, would remain unchanged.

Risk Management Update Report

A report on the Chamberlain's Departmental Risk Management was scheduled for information. This report would inform the committee about the key risks faced by the department, including two identified as RED on the Corporate Risk Register: Unsustainable Medium-Term Finances – City Fund and Housing Revenue Account Financials. The report was expected to detail the current risk scores, the causes and effects of these risks, and the mitigating measures being implemented.

Minutes of the Previous Meeting

The committee was scheduled to agree the public minutes and non-public summary of the previous meeting held on 9 December 2025.