This week in Greater London Authority:

Assaults on Transport Workers: A Crisis Demanding Urgent Action

The Transport Committee met on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, to confront the alarming rise in assaults and abuse faced by London's transport workers. The committee heard harrowing testimonies from frontline staff detailing the daily reality of verbal abuse, intimidation, and physical violence they endure. This issue has profound implications for the safety and well-being of those who keep London moving, and for the public's trust in our transport system.

The scale of the problem is significant. Workers shared experiences of being punched, spat at, and subjected to death threats. One bus driver recounted a brutal assault that left him with severe injuries and ongoing psychological trauma, impacting his personal life and ability to work. These are not isolated incidents; they represent a systemic failure to adequately protect transport staff.

A major theme was the inadequacy of current reporting mechanisms and support systems. Workers described laborious and time-consuming reporting forms, a lack of timely police response, and a perception that management is not fully supportive. One revenue control officer recounted an assault where the police took two hours to arrive, and the subsequent investigation was slow and lacked communication. This leaves staff feeling unsupported and disincentivised to report incidents, leading to underreporting and a distorted picture of the true scale of the problem.

The committee heard that while Transport for London (TfL) has a zero tolerance policy, the reality on the ground suggests a high tolerance for such behaviour. The effectiveness of training was also questioned, with some arguing that it often occurs in a studio environment and fails to prepare staff for the unpredictable and often violent reality they face. For privately employed drivers, the situation is even more precarious, with many feeling abandoned by both their employers and TfL.

The impact of these assaults extends beyond the immediate physical harm. Workers spoke of the psychological toll, the fear of returning to work, and the strain on their personal lives. The lack of consistent support, particularly from middle management, was a recurring complaint, with some staff feeling blamed for the incidents they experience.

The committee's discussions highlighted the urgent need for a cultural shift within TfL and its operating partners. This includes:

• Streamlining and improving reporting systems: Making it easier and quicker for staff to report all incidents, from verbal abuse to physical assaults.
• Enhancing support for victims: Providing more immediate and comprehensive support, including mental health services, and ensuring managers are trained to offer genuine assistance.
• Strengthening police response and investigation: Working with the Metropolitan Police and British Transport Police to ensure timely responses and effective investigations.
• Addressing systemic issues: Examining the root causes of aggression, including fare evasion, and ensuring that preventative measures are prioritised.
• Improving training: Developing more realistic and effective training programmes that equip staff with the skills to de-escalate and manage challenging situations.

The testimonies from frontline workers paint a stark picture of a system under immense pressure, where the safety of those providing essential services is not adequately guaranteed. The committee's findings will be crucial in pushing for the urgent changes needed to protect London's transport workers.

• Transport Committee meeting details

London's Budget: A Balancing Act Between Ambition and Reality

The Budget and Performance Committee met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to scrutinise the Mayor of London's proposed budget for the upcoming financial year. The committee heard that while the Mayor expressed satisfaction with certain aspects, significant frustrations remain regarding government funding and the timing of its allocation. This budget will shape the delivery of vital services across London, from policing to housing, and its implications will be felt by all residents.

The Mayor highlighted a key frustration with the lag between the draft, various budgets, local government, policing, and then the final settlement. This delay prevents detailed allocation of funds and hinders transparent scrutiny by the Assembly and Londoners. While the Mayor welcomed improved engagement with government officials and a long-term capital settlement for Transport for London (TfL), he expressed disappointment that the uplift in funding seen last year could not be matched for 2026-27.

Significant new allocations were announced, including £50 million for Young Londoners funding, described as the largest new GLA Mayor allocation. While the Mayor emphasised the positive impact of previous investments in youth services, the lack of immediate detail on how this substantial sum will be spent was a point of concern for the committee. Similarly, £20 million has been earmarked for an AI taskforce to address the impact of artificial intelligence on London's workforce, with plans to develop training programmes. However, the specific recommendations and their associated costs are yet to be finalised.

The budget also includes £5 million for further support to high streets and the hospitality sector, building on the success of previous initiatives. For residents, this could mean revitalised local centres and improved amenities. However, the committee pressed for more detail on how this funding will be allocated, with the Mayor indicating a preference for working with local authorities who best understand their communities.

The budget allocates £1.26 billion to the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), a significant increase since the Mayor took office. The focus is on neighbourhood policing, with an ambition to increase officer numbers in these vital community roles. However, the committee questioned the overall police officer numbers, with the Mayor stating a goal to stabilise current levels rather than achieve previous manifesto targets. This raises questions about the future of visible policing in London.

Funding for Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) services has also seen a substantial increase, with an additional £29 million allocated for victims' services, perpetrator programmes, and supported housing. This demonstrates a commitment to addressing critical safety issues affecting many Londoners.

The committee also discussed the delivery of affordable housing, with the Mayor acknowledging concerns about the hockey stick pattern of development starts concentrated in the final quarter of programmes. Measures are being introduced to encourage more even delivery, including government funding for stalled sites and streamlined approvals. The budget also includes an additional £8 million to tackle rough sleeping, with a focus on prevention and early intervention, aiming to support individuals before they lose their homes.

For TfL, £20 million is allocated for fares innovation, aimed at increasing ridership and revenue, particularly for buses. While the Mayor highlighted past innovations like free bus routes and the Hopper fare, the specifics of how this new fund will be used remain to be detailed. The ongoing challenge of bus subsidies, now exceeding £1.2 billion, was also a significant point of discussion, with TfL exploring cost-saving measures and potential insourcing of services.

The budget process highlights the ongoing tension between ambitious goals for London and the financial realities shaped by government funding and economic pressures. The lack of immediate detail on some key allocations means that the full impact of this budget on Londoners will become clearer in the coming months.

• Budget and Performance Committee meeting details
• London Assembly (Mayor's Question Time) meeting details

Police and Crime Committee: Scrutinising London's Safety and Justice

The Police and Crime Committee met on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to review the work of the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) and the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). The committee engaged in a crucial question and answer session with representatives from MOPAC and the MPS, covering a range of issues vital to London's safety and justice system.

A key agenda item was the review of declarations of interest by committee members, ensuring transparency and integrity in their deliberations. The committee also confirmed the minutes of its previous meeting, a standard procedural step to ensure accurate record-keeping.

The core of the meeting involved a detailed question and answer session with MOPAC and the MPS. This provided a platform for committee members to scrutinise the operational effectiveness and strategic direction of policing in London. Topics discussed included the MPS's Mounted Branch, workforce planning, and the handling of officer misconduct and dismissals. For Londoners, understanding how these critical areas are managed directly impacts their safety and confidence in the police.

The committee also received an update on actions taken under delegated authority, specifically the agreement of a report on Neighbourhood Policing: The experience of young Londoners. This report likely sheds light on the effectiveness of neighbourhood policing initiatives and their impact on young people, a demographic often disproportionately affected by crime and policing.

Furthermore, the committee reviewed its work programme, ensuring its future scrutiny activities align with the most pressing issues facing London's safety and justice landscape. The date of the next meeting was also confirmed, signalling the committee's ongoing commitment to holding the MPS and MOPAC to account.

The discussions at this meeting are vital for ensuring that policing in London is effective, fair, and responsive to the needs of all communities. The committee's oversight plays a crucial role in shaping the future of policing and fostering public trust.

• Police and Crime Committee meeting details

Other Matters

• The London Assembly (Mayor's Question Time) meeting on Thursday, 26 February 2026, was dominated by discussions on the Mayor of London's Final Draft Consolidated Budget for 2026-27. Assembly Members questioned the Mayor on various aspects of the budget, including allocations for AI taskforces, high street support, and young Londoners' funding. The budget's potential impact on services and the transparency of its proposals were key areas of focus.
  • London Assembly (Mayor's Question Time) meeting details

Upcoming Meetings

• Economy, Culture and Skills Committee: Tuesday, 03 March 2026, 00:00. Topics include the London Growth Plan and responses to previous committee outputs.
  • Economy, Culture and Skills Committee meeting details
• Environment Committee: Tuesday, 03 March 2026, 00:00. Topics include a Q&A with the Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy and the committee's work programme.
  • Environment Committee meeting details
• Health Committee: Wednesday, 04 March 2026, 00:00. Topics include violence and abuse against healthcare staff and the committee's work programme.
  • Health Committee meeting details
• Chief Officer Performance Review Panel: Wednesday, 04 March 2026, 00:00. Topics include declarations of interest and the exclusion of press and public for the review of the Chief Officer's performance.
  • Chief Officer Performance Review Panel meeting details
• London Assembly (Plenary): Thursday, 05 March 2026, 00:00. Topics include London's economy, jobs, and growth, as well as petitions and motions.
  • London Assembly (Plenary) meeting details
• Planning and Regeneration Committee: Tuesday, 10 March 2026, 00:00. Topics to be confirmed.
  • Planning and Regeneration Committee meeting details
• Health Committee: Monday, 09 March 2026, 00:00. Topics to be confirmed.
  • Health Committee meeting details
• GLA Oversight Committee: Thursday, 12 March 2026, 00:00. Topics to be confirmed.
  • GLA Oversight Committee meeting details
• Housing Committee: Thursday, 12 March 2026, 00:00. Topics to be confirmed.
  • Housing Committee meeting details
• Police and Crime Committee: Wednesday, 11 March 2026, 00:00. Topics to be confirmed.
  • Police and Crime Committee meeting details

This week in Greater London Authority:

New Towns for London: A Bold Vision or a Risky Gamble?

The Planning and Regeneration Committee met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to delve into the ambitious proposals for New Towns for London. This initiative, part of a national programme to establish new settlements, has shortlisted two London sites: Thamesmead in Greenwich and Crews Hill and Chase Park in Enfield. The committee heard from representatives of Transport for London (TfL), Peabody, and the government's New Towns Task Force about the potential benefits and challenges of these developments.

A key point of discussion was the definition of new towns themselves. While the government's programme uses this term, the committee explored whether these proposals align with the historical understanding of new towns established under the New Towns Act 1946. Some members expressed concern that the term might be used loosely to describe urban extensions rather than entirely new, self-contained settlements. This distinction is important, as it can influence public perception and the level of infrastructure and governance required.

The potential impact on London's Green Belt was a significant concern. While the New Towns Task Force stated they followed government guidance on releasing Green Belt land, some committee members questioned the criteria used and whether environmental protections were sufficiently prioritised. The development at Crews Hill and Chase Park, in particular, was noted to potentially include parkland, raising questions about the balance between housing delivery and the preservation of green spaces.

For residents, the prospect of new towns brings both opportunities and potential challenges. The promise of accelerated housing delivery and economic growth is appealing, especially given London's significant housing targets. However, concerns were raised about the potential for increased urban sprawl and the impact on existing communities. The committee heard that while the goal is to create thriving communities and good places, the specifics of how this will be achieved, particularly regarding affordability and community engagement, remain to be fully defined.

The committee also examined the proposed delivery models, with development corporations being a favoured option. While these bodies can offer strong powers for infrastructure investment and value recapture, questions were raised about local control and the potential for Mayoral Development Corporations to be overly centralised. The long-term stewardship of these new towns was also a key consideration, with a focus on ensuring they become sustainable, well-integrated communities rather than isolated developments.

• Planning and Regeneration Committee meeting details

Renters' Rights Act: A New Era for London's Tenants, But Will Enforcement Keep Pace?

The Housing Committee met on Monday, 9 February 2026, to examine the implementation of the Renters' Rights Act in London. This legislation, which aims to provide greater security and stability for private renters, introduces significant changes, including the abolition of Section 21 'no-fault' evictions and the establishment of a new periodic tenancy structure.

For London's renters, the Act promises a much-needed shift towards greater security. Dr. Jennifer Harris, Head of Policy Research at the TDS Group, highlighted that while the risk of eviction might be statistically low, the fear of eviction significantly impacts renters' well-being and their willingness to report issues to landlords. The Act's measures, such as banning rental bidding and limiting rent in advance, are particularly relevant in London, where affordability pressures are acute. A third of London renters struggle to pay rent each month, and nearly half cut back on essentials to do so.

However, significant concerns were raised about the practicalities of enforcement. Professor Christine Whitehead, Emeritus Professor of Housing Economics at LSE, pointed out that for the most vulnerable renters, the Act's provisions may be difficult to implement due to affordability constraints. She warned that in poor parts of London, many simply cannot afford the standards the Act aims to introduce, potentially leading to an unregulated market persisting for those most in need.

The capacity of local authorities to enforce the Act was a major theme. Dr. Harris noted that while the Act grants new powers, concerns remain about whether councils have sufficient resources, staff, and skills to effectively monitor and enforce the legislation. The variation in council approaches, from proactive to reactive, could lead to an inconsistent experience for renters across London. The committee also discussed the need for better data collection and measurement to understand the Act's true impact, moving beyond simply counting prosecutions to assessing actual improvements in compliance and standards.

The potential for landlords to switch properties to holiday lets or to become more risk-averse in who they rent to, particularly those on benefits or with disabilities, were also flagged as areas to monitor. The Act's success will ultimately depend on effective communication of renters' rights and responsibilities, alongside robust enforcement mechanisms, to ensure that the intended benefits reach all Londoners, not just those who are already well-informed and resourced.

• Housing Committee meeting details

Police and Crime Committee: Oversight of Met Police Culture Change

The Police and Crime Committee met on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, to examine how the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) is overseeing culture change within the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). This follows Baroness Casey's independent review, which found the MPS to be institutionally racist, sexist, and homophobic, necessitating significant transformation.

The committee reviewed MOPAC's progress in implementing reforms under the New Met for London plan. A key focus was the effectiveness of MOPAC's oversight mechanisms in driving genuine change within the MPS. The committee heard that while MOPAC has a role in setting policing priorities and holding the Commissioner to account, questions remain about the depth and pace of cultural transformation.

The discussions highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in this process. The committee noted the establishment of the London Policing Board (LPB) as a response to Baroness Casey's recommendations, aimed at improving oversight. However, the ongoing progress review, led by Dr. Gillian Fairfield, is crucial for assessing whether these reforms are translating into tangible improvements in the MPS's culture and practices. For Londoners, particularly those from communities that have historically faced discrimination, the effectiveness of this oversight is paramount to rebuilding trust and ensuring equitable policing.

The committee also reviewed its work programme, which includes ongoing scrutiny of MOPAC and the MPS, as well as specific investigations into issues like online fraud. The commitment to examining these critical areas demonstrates the committee's dedication to ensuring London's police force serves all communities effectively and ethically.

• Police and Crime Committee meeting details

Other Matters

• The GLA Oversight Committee met on Tuesday, 10 February 2026. The committee reviewed its work programme and draft timetable for the upcoming year, discussed the membership of the Chief Officer Performance Review Panel, and held a question and answer session with representatives from London & Partners. The focus was on ensuring the Assembly's operational efficiency and effective scrutiny of the GLA's activities.
  • GLA Oversight Committee meeting details

Upcoming Meetings

• Transport Committee: Tuesday, 24 February 2026, 00:00. Topics include road space, driving, congestion, and the committee's work programme.
  • Transport Committee meeting details
• Budget and Performance Committee: Wednesday, 25 February 2026, 00:00. Topics include the 2026-27 GLA Group Budget.
  • Budget and Performance Committee meeting details
• Police and Crime Committee: Wednesday, 25 February 2026, 00:00. Topics include MOPAC's oversight of culture change in the MPS and the committee's work programme.
  • Police and Crime Committee meeting details
• London Assembly (Mayor's Question Time): Thursday, 26 February 2026, 00:00. The Assembly will hold its regular Mayor's Question Time session.
  • London Assembly (Mayor's Question Time) meeting details

This week in Greater London Authority:

Heat Networks: Ensuring Fair Bills and a Greener Future for Londoners

The Environment Committee met on Tuesday, 3 February 2026, to examine London's progress on environmental priorities, with a significant focus on the expansion and regulation of heat networks. These networks, which supply heat to buildings from a central source, are crucial for London's decarbonisation efforts, but concerns were raised about consumer protection and affordability.

The committee heard that while the expansion of heat networks is a welcome step towards a cleaner, greener capital, the experience of consumers on existing networks needs urgent attention. Issues such as billing, financial strain, disconnection, and reliability were highlighted. The introduction of regulation by the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) from January 2026 is a positive development, but the committee explored whether current redress mechanisms are sufficient.

A key concern is the potential for the costs of upgrading older heat network systems to be passed on to consumers. This could disproportionately affect vulnerable households, who may already be struggling with energy bills. The committee discussed the government's plans for heat network zoning and how to ensure these zones drive low-cost, low-carbon networks.

The discussions also touched upon the role of data centres in providing surplus heat for future networks. While this presents an opportunity, the committee stressed the need to ensure these opportunities are not missed during the planning process. The expansion of heat networks is a complex issue with real-world implications for Londoners' energy bills and the city's environmental goals.

• Environment Committee meeting details

Community Banks: A Vital Lifeline for Londoners Facing Financial Exclusion

The Economy, Culture and Skills Committee met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, to explore the crucial role of community banks, such as credit unions, in supporting London's economy and tackling financial exclusion. The committee heard that these member-owned, not-for-profit institutions are vital for individuals and communities struggling to access mainstream financial services.

Representatives from credit unions highlighted that while they serve all members, their core mission is to provide accessible and affordable financial services to those most in need. Matt Bland, Chief Executive of the Association of British Credit Unions, stated that 20 million people across the UK facing financial vulnerability of some kind, and that Londoners are generally more financially vulnerable and excluded than the average across the whole of the country. This underscores the critical need for institutions like credit unions.

A key advantage of community banks, as explained by Ben West, Head of Business Development at London Mutual Credit Union, is their member-centric approach: any money that we make doesn't go into shareholders' pockets or into CEO salaries or so on. It's reinvested in our services or returned directly into the communities we serve. This contrasts sharply with mainstream banks, where profit motives can sometimes lead to less favourable outcomes for customers, particularly those on lower incomes or with less-than-perfect credit histories.

The committee heard that while credit unions offer significantly better rates than illegal lenders, their maximum APR of 42.6% can still be high for those in dire straits. However, the focus on building financial resilience through savings and responsible borrowing, alongside personalised support, sets them apart. Ravi Ravindran, Chief Executive of Lewisham and Bromley Credit Union, shared a powerful example of a member who, after receiving an emergency loan, was able to build savings and achieve financial stability over 20 years.

Despite their vital role, a significant barrier identified was a lack of awareness and a perception that credit unions are just for the poorest and the most financially excluded. Efforts to improve digital offerings and expand the 'common bond' rule, which currently restricts membership to specific groups, were discussed as ways to increase accessibility across London. The committee's discussions highlighted the essential role community banks play in fostering financial inclusion and supporting Londoners through difficult economic times.

• Economy, Culture and Skills Committee meeting details

Fire Safety in London: Addressing Risks and Ensuring Accountability

The London Assembly (Plenary) met on Thursday, 5 February 2026, to address critical issues concerning fire safety in London, with a particular focus on the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) and the London Fire Brigade (LFB). The meeting included a question and answer session with the Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and the Fire Service, Jules Pipe CBE, and the London Fire Commissioner, Jonathan Smith, focusing on the greatest risks to fire safety and mitigation strategies.

Assembly Members raised concerns about the operational capacity and cultural integrity of the LFB. Written questions submitted by Assembly Members delved into issues such as the declaration of Freemasonry membership by LFB staff, donations from London Freemasons, and concerns regarding the Edgware Bus Garage development and the risks associated with large-scale electric vehicle charging infrastructure. These questions highlight the need for transparency and robust oversight in all aspects of fire safety and emergency response.

Furthermore, the committee discussed measures to improve the representation of women in senior leadership roles within the LFB and the publication of research into progression barriers. This is crucial for ensuring a diverse and representative workforce capable of addressing the varied needs of London's communities. Updates on the Privacy for All Programme and plans to increase subscribers to the LFB's email newsletter were also discussed, indicating a focus on communication and public engagement.

A significant concern raised was the increasing number of fires related to lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and the modelling undertaken by the LFB regarding this threat. The #ChargeSafe campaign and efforts to improve public awareness are vital in preventing potentially devastating incidents. The committee also noted the increasing number of employment tribunals involving the LFB, signalling a need for continued focus on cultural change initiatives and fair employment practices.

The Assembly also considered petitions, including one calling for new speed cameras in Hayes and Coney Hall to reduce road casualties, and another opposing the reduction of opening hours at Bexleyheath Police Station. A petition advocating for step-free access at South Wimbledon tube station was also presented. These petitions reflect the diverse concerns of Londoners regarding public safety and accessibility.

Motions were put forward expressing concerns about the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, particularly regarding their impact on Deaf and Disabled Peoples' Organisations. The Assembly was urged to call for a rethink of these regulations, highlighting the need for robust personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs). Another motion expressed concern over plans to abolish the right to a jury trial for certain offences, arguing it would set a harmful precedent. These discussions underscore the Assembly's commitment to ensuring Londoners are safe and well-protected.

• London Assembly (Plenary) meeting details

Other Matters

• The Economy, Culture and Skills Committee also met on Wednesday, 4 February 2026. The committee discussed the vital role of community banks in London's economy, their impact on financial inclusion, and potential areas for growth and support. Key discussions revolved around the challenges and opportunities for these institutions in comparison to mainstream banks, and how they can better serve Londoners.
  • Economy, Culture and Skills Committee meeting details

Upcoming Meetings

• Housing Committee: Monday, 09 February 2026, 00:00. Topics include the Renters' Rights Act and the Mayor's Affordable Homes Programme.
  • Housing Committee meeting details
• GLA Oversight Committee: Tuesday, 10 February 2026, 00:00. Topics to be confirmed.
  • GLA Oversight Committee meeting details
• Police and Crime Committee: Wednesday, 11 February 2026, 00:00. Topics include MOPAC's oversight of culture change in the MPS and the committee's work programme.
  • Police and Crime Committee meeting details
• Planning and Regeneration Committee: Wednesday, 11 February 2026, 00:00. Topics include New Towns for London - Part 2 and the committee's work programme.
  • Planning and Regeneration Committee meeting details

This week in Greater London Authority:

Budget Battles: London's Future Funding Under the Microscope

The Budget and Performance Committee convened on Monday, 26 January 2026, to scrutinise the Mayor of London's proposed budget for the upcoming financial year. The committee delved into the financial plans for key GLA Group bodies, including the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) and Transport for London (TfL), alongside a review of significant payments and the committee's own work programme.

A central focus was the 2026-27 Greater London Authority Group Budget. The committee was set to hear from invited guests, including the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, and the GLA's Chief Finance Officer, Fay Hammond. This discussion is crucial for understanding how public funds will be allocated across vital services, impacting everything from policing levels to public transport reliability. The committee's recommendations on the budget will shape the financial landscape for Londoners, with potential implications for council tax levels and service provision.

The committee also reviewed payments over £250 made by the GLA and its subsidiaries between September and December 2025. While seemingly routine, this scrutiny ensures public money is spent appropriately and transparently. For residents, this means understanding how their contributions are being managed and whether value for money is being achieved.

The Budget and Performance Committee Work Programme was also on the agenda, outlining the committee's focus for the remainder of the year. This includes further scrutiny of the Mayor's budget proposals and specific budget and performance issues. The committee's work directly influences the accountability of the GLA and its bodies, ensuring they are performing effectively and efficiently for the benefit of all Londoners.

• Budget and Performance Committee meeting details

New Towns for London: A Bold Vision or a Risky Gamble?

The Planning and Regeneration Committee met on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, to explore the ambitious concept of New Towns for London. This discussion is particularly relevant as the government pushes for new settlements across England, with two potential sites identified within London: Thamesmead in Greenwich and Crews Hill and Chase Park in Enfield.

Unlike previous new town initiatives focused on accommodating overspill from existing cities, this discussion centres on creating new urban centres within London. The committee heard from experts on how these new towns could be designed to meet Londoners' needs, drawing lessons from past UK and international developments. Key questions arose about how existing Mayoral powers could be leveraged and what governance structures would ensure long-term success.

A significant proposal considered was a site visit to Clamart, France, a Parisian suburb that has undergone regeneration. This visit aims to provide practical insights into successful new town development, potentially influencing the design and planning of London's future settlements. The committee's deliberations on this topic could shape the future of housing, infrastructure, and community development in London, with profound implications for current and future residents.

The committee also reviewed its work programme, including its examination of the Mayor's Spatial Development Strategy (the London Plan) and the work of development corporations. This forward-looking approach is vital for ensuring that London's growth is sustainable and benefits all its communities.

• Planning and Regeneration Committee meeting details

Policing London: Budget, Technology, and Public Trust

The London Assembly (Plenary) met on Thursday, 29 January 2026, to tackle the critical issue of the Mayor of London's draft Consolidated Budget for 2026-27. This comprehensive budget covers essential services including policing, transport, and the fire brigade, and its approval is a key responsibility of the Assembly.

A significant focus was placed on the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) budget. The Budget and Performance Committee's response highlighted concerns about the potential shortfall in police officer numbers compared to the Mayor's manifesto commitment to add 1,300 neighbourhood police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). This directly impacts the visibility and accessibility of policing for Londoners, particularly in their local communities. The committee also questioned the decision to pause the civilianisation of roles within the MPS, raising concerns about cost minimisation and recruitment efficiency.

The use of technology in policing was also a key theme. The committee noted the Mayor's announcement of £30 million for capital investment in innovative technology, including artificial intelligence and automation. While this promises to improve operational efficiency, questions remain about how this investment will translate into tangible benefits for public safety and community policing.

Furthermore, the Police and Crime Committee met on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, to discuss policing performance and its work programme. The committee engaged in a question and answer session with the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Kaya Comer-Schwartz, covering topics such as homicides, the MPS's transition to electric vehicles, and the policing of protests. The discussion around homicides highlighted the significant decrease achieved, but also the ongoing work to prevent future tragedies. The transition to electric vehicles, while environmentally driven, raised questions about its impact on operational readiness and the potential for increased borrowing costs.

The committee's scrutiny of the budget and policing operations is vital for ensuring that London remains a safe and well-policed city, with resources allocated effectively to meet the needs of all residents.

• London Assembly (Plenary) meeting details
• Police and Crime Committee meeting details

Other Matters

• The Police and Crime Committee also met on Wednesday, 28 January 2026. The committee reviewed its work programme and received a monthly report from the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC). Discussions included the progress of actions from previous meetings, updates on policing performance, and the committee's future work. The committee engaged in a question and answer session with the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Kaya Comer-Schwartz, covering topics such as homicides, the MPS's transition to electric vehicles, and the policing of protests.
  • Police and Crime Committee meeting details

Upcoming Meetings

• Environment Committee: Tuesday, 03 February 2026, 00:00. Topics include London's environmental priorities and the Mayor's environmental mandates.
  • Environment Committee meeting details
• Economy, Culture and Skills Committee: Wednesday, 04 February 2026, 00:00. Topics include community banks and the committee's work programme.
  • Economy, Culture and Skills Committee meeting details
• London Assembly (Plenary): Thursday, 05 February 2026, 00:00. The Assembly will discuss fire safety in London and review mayoral commitments.
  • London Assembly (Plenary) meeting details
• GLA Oversight Committee: Tuesday, 10 February 2026, 00:00. Topics to be confirmed.
  • GLA Oversight Committee meeting details
• Housing Committee: Monday, 09 February 2026, 00:00. Topics include the Renters' Rights Act and the Mayor's Affordable Homes Programme.
  • Housing Committee meeting details
• Police and Crime Committee: Wednesday, 11 February 2026, 00:00. Topics to be confirmed.
  • Police and Crime Committee meeting details
• Planning and Regeneration Committee: Wednesday, 11 February 2026, 00:00. Topics to be confirmed.
  • Planning and Regeneration Committee meeting details