This week in Westminster:

Late-Night Ice Cream Café and Paddington Square Venue Face Licensing Scrutiny

Westminster's Licensing Sub-Committees are considering applications that could significantly alter the late-night landscape of the borough. Decisions this week involve a proposal for a late-night ice cream café in a sensitive area and a new multi-level venue in Paddington Square, both raising concerns among residents and authorities about public nuisance and safety.

Amorino Seeks Late-Night Hours in West End Cumulative Impact Zone

The Licensing Sub-Committee (2) is scheduled to consider a new premises licence application for Amorino, an ice cream café at 41 Old Compton Street, London, W1D 6HF. The applicant seeks permission for Late Night Refreshment from 11:00 pm to 3:00 am, seven days a week.

This application is particularly sensitive as it falls within the West End Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ)[^1]. This area is designated due to a high concentration of licensed premises and a significantly higher rate of crime and disorder. Westminster's Statement of Licensing Policy[^2] generally presumes against applications that operate outside core hours in such zones, unless exceptional circumstances can be proven.

Representations have been received from the Licensing Authority, Environmental Health, and the Metropolitan Police, all expressing concerns about the potential impact on public nuisance, crime and disorder, public safety, and the protection of children from harm. The Soho Society has also objected, echoing concerns about cumulative impact and requesting a reduction in the proposed hours. While the Metropolitan Police initially objected, they have since withdrawn their representation after an agreement on conditions. Proposed conditions include that licensable activities remain ancillary to the main function of an ice cream café and that outdoor seating is removed by 11:00 pm on weekdays and 10:00 pm on Sundays.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (2) meeting here

Torino at Paddington Square Faces Resident Objections Over Late Hours

The committee is also set to consider a new premises licence for Torino, a multi-layered hospitality space at 1 Paddington Square, Westminster, London, W2 1DL. The application proposes the sale of alcohol for consumption on and off the premises from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm daily, with extensions to 1:00 am on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. The venue, which includes a café bistro, restaurant, and rooftop bar, would be open to the public until 11:30 pm daily, with extended hours to 1:30 am on those festive dates.

The applicant describes Torino as a predominantly food-led operation. However, resident associations, the South East Bayswater Residents' Association and the Paddington Waterways & Maida Vale Society, have objected, citing concerns about potential public nuisance and crime and disorder. They have proposed conditions such as the venue operating solely as a restaurant with alcohol served only with meals, no takeaway sales unless part of a food order, and restrictions on noise and odours. The Metropolitan Police initially objected but withdrew their representation after agreed conditions. The proposed conditions cover CCTV, age verification, an incident log, staff training, and management of the rooftop terrace.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (2) meeting here

Planning Committee to Consider Tree Preservation and Development Applications

The Planning Sub-Committee (2) met on Tuesday 04 August 2026 to discuss a Tree Preservation Order and several planning applications, including the conversion of a former pub into a hotel and new residential units. These decisions will shape local streetscapes and protect valuable green spaces.

Magnolia Tree Preservation Order Decision Pending

The committee was scheduled to decide on Tree Preservation Order (TPO) No. 730 concerning a Magnolia tree at 3 Northumberland Place, London W2 5BS. A provisional TPO was made after a notice of intent to remove the tree was received. The property owners' arborist argued the tree had reduced amenity value, but the council's Arboricultural Officer maintained it had significant amenity value and recommended confirming the TPO. The committee's decision will determine the future of this tree, which contributes to the local green canopy.

Hotel Conversion and New Homes on the Agenda

Several planning applications were also considered:

• 27 - 29 Crawford Place, London, W1H 4LJ: This application sought permission to convert a former public house into a 17-bedroom hotel. Concerns were raised by objectors about the quality of accommodation, with some rooms lacking natural daylight, and issues with waste management and cycle storage. The report noted the prolonged marketing period for the pub use with no offers received.
• 25 - 30 North Row, London, W1K 6DJ: Proposals included refurbishments to existing floorspace, a rear extension, a roof extension, and the creation of external terrace spaces. Objections from residents focused on noise, loss of daylight and privacy, and design, particularly concerning the introduction of a restaurant. The report acknowledged that the Mayfair Neighbourhood Plan supports active frontages at ground floor level.
• 7 Bathurst Mews, London, W2 2SB: This application sought to convert existing stables and a first-floor flat into three two-bedroom residential units. A significant number of objections were received regarding the loss of the equestrian use. However, the report stated that an application to designate the property as an Asset of Community Value had been removed due to insufficient evidence of community benefit.

Link to the Planning Sub-Committee (2) meeting here

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) met on Thursday 06 August 2026. Link to the meeting here.

The Licensing Sub-Committee (3) met on Thursday 06 August 2026. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Late-Night Restaurant Extension Sparks Controversy in the West End

Westminster's Licensing Sub-Committees are grappling with applications that could extend the late-night operations of businesses, raising concerns among residents and authorities about public nuisance and safety. A key decision this week involves a fast-food restaurant seeking to operate later, potentially impacting the already busy West End.

Wok and Fire Seeks Extended Hours Amidst Objections

The Licensing Sub-Committee (3) is set to consider a variation to the premises licence for Wok and Fire, a fast-food restaurant located at 33 Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4HA. The applicant, Mr Shakeeb Ayash, wants to extend late-night refreshment hours by one hour on weekdays (until 12:30 am) and two hours on Fridays and Saturdays (until 1:00 am). During these extended hours, the business would operate as takeaway only.

This proposal has drawn objections from the Metropolitan Police, the Licensing Authority, and Environmental Health. The police are concerned that the extension, particularly within the West End Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ)^[1], could worsen crime and disorder and public nuisance. PC David Morgan, representing the Metropolitan Police, stated that the requested hours go beyond Westminster's core hours policy and could strain police resources.

The Licensing Authority echoed these concerns, noting that the West End CIZ generally presumes against extensions for fast-food premises beyond core hours. Environmental Health also fears an increase in public nuisance.

Mr Ayash argues that Wok and Fire has operated for nearly five years without incident and that the additional takeaway-only hour is crucial for the business's financial health. He has offered to accept additional conditions, such as litter patrols and SIA door supervisors, to mitigate concerns. The committee will weigh these arguments against the council's Statement of Licensing Policy, which aims to manage the impact of licensed premises on the community.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (3) meeting here

Planning Committee to Decide on Hotel Conversion and Tree Preservation

The Planning Sub-Committee (2) will meet next week to consider a range of planning applications, including the conversion of a vacant pub into a hotel and a decision on a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). These decisions will shape the character of local neighbourhoods and protect valuable green spaces.

Vacant Pub in Marylebone Eyed for Hotel Conversion

A significant application concerns the conversion of a long-vacant pub at 27-29 Crawford Place, London, W1H 4LJ into a 17-bedroom hotel. The proposals include rebuilding rear extensions and installing plant equipment. While the building has been empty since 2018 and marketing efforts have failed to revive its use as a pub, local residents have raised objections. Concerns include potential harm to residential amenity, the character of the Molyneux Street Conservation Area, and issues with accommodation quality and waste management. The report notes that a hotel use is considered acceptable within the Central Activities Zone (CAZ)[^2].

Decision Looms on Magnolia Tree Preservation

The committee will also decide the fate of a Magnolia tree at 3 Northumberland Place, London W2 5BS under Tree Preservation Order (TPO) No. 730. The council provisionally protected the tree after a notice to remove it was received. The property owners' arborist argued the tree has reduced amenity value, but the council's own Arboricultural Officer assessed the tree as having good form and amenity value, recommending the TPO be confirmed. This decision will impact the green canopy in the area.

Other applications include proposals for refurbishment and extensions at 25-30 North Row, London, W1K 6DJ in Mayfair, and the conversion of stables into residential units at 7, 8 & 9 Bathurst Mews, London W2 2SB, which has faced objections regarding the loss of equestrian use.

Link to the Planning Sub-Committee (2) meeting here

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) met on Thursday 30 July 2026. Link to the meeting here.

The Licensing Sub-Committee (3) met on Thursday 30 July 2026. Link to the meeting here.

The Strategic Planning Committee met on Wednesday 29 July 2026. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Late-Night Venues Face Scrutiny as Council Considers Licensing Applications

Westminster's Licensing Sub-Committees have been considering a number of applications that could significantly alter the late-night landscape of the borough. Decisions on extending operating hours for fast-food outlets and new venues could impact residents and the character of local areas.

Edgware Road and Leicester Square Venues Seek Extended Hours

The Licensing Sub-Committee (4) met on Thursday 23 July 2026 to consider applications that could see popular fast-food chains operating later into the night. Link to the meeting here.

• McDonald's, 178-180 Edgware Road, London, W2 2DS: An application to extend the operating hours for this McDonald's was on the agenda. The proposal sought to allow late-night refreshment until 02:30 from Sunday to Thursday, aligning with existing Friday and Saturday hours. This application faced significant objections from the Metropolitan Police, Environmental Health, and local residents' groups. Concerns were raised about potential increases in public nuisance, crime, and disorder, particularly as the area is designated a Special Consideration Zone. Residents highlighted issues such as anti-social behaviour, drug dealing, and littering. The applicant proposed measures like body-worn cameras for staff and enhanced litter controls to address these concerns. The decision could impact the quality of life for residents living near this busy thoroughfare.

• McDonald's, 48 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7LU: Another McDonald's, this time in the heart of the West End, applied for a new premises licence that would allow for 24-hour trading. The application sought late-night refreshment hours from 23:00 to 05:00, seven days a week. Objections were lodged by the Licensing Authority, Metropolitan Police, and Environmental Health, citing the premises' location within the West End Cumulative Impact Zone and the potential for extended hours to undermine licensing objectives. The applicant highlighted existing customer demand and proposed a raft of control measures, including SIA door supervisors and a detailed litter management policy. This application highlights the ongoing debate about the density and operating hours of late-night venues in central London.

• Chicken Valley, 340 Edgware Road, London, W2 1EA: This fast-food outlet also sought to extend its late-night refreshment hours, proposing to stay open until 03:00 every day. This represents a two-hour increase on all days of the week. The Metropolitan Police objected, concerned that the extended hours could attract individuals who have consumed alcohol, leading to increased crime and disorder. Environmental Health also raised concerns about exceeding Westminster City Council's core hours policy for fast-food venues. The applicant proposed new conditions, including enhanced CCTV and updated litter management protocols. The decision will affect residents in the vicinity of Edgware Road, an area noted as a high-crime corridor.

Planning Committee Considers Major Development and Heritage Impact

The Planning Sub-Committee (3) met on Tuesday 21 July 2026 to consider a range of planning applications, including significant developments that could impact conservation areas and the character of the borough. Link to the meeting here.

Soho Development Faces Scrutiny Over Servicing and Rooftop Plant

A significant application at 47-50 Poland Street and 54-57 Great Marlborough Street, London, sought variations to an existing planning permission for a hotel, retail, and restaurant development. The proposed changes included amendments to the energy strategy, the addition of a fire fighting core, and alterations to the servicing strategy. The Soho Society and local residents raised objections concerning the relocation of servicing to Poland Street, citing potential congestion, noise, and visual impact from rooftop plant. The committee's decision will influence the development's integration into the vibrant Soho streetscape and its impact on local amenity.

West End Jazz Venue Application Moves Forward

The committee also considered a change of use application for 42 - 49 St Martin's Lane, London, WC2N 4EJ. The proposal sought to convert gym space into a live music jazz venue with a food and drink offering. Objections from residents and the Covent Garden Community Association focused on potential noise, disturbance, servicing, and waste handling. The report recommended granting conditional permission, with conditions aimed at mitigating noise and managing operations. This decision will shape the cultural offering of the St Martin's Lane area, balancing the desire for new entertainment venues with the need to protect residents from nuisance.

London Library and Westbourne Hotel Applications

The committee also reviewed applications for the London Library, 14 St James's Square, London, SW1Y 4LG, which involved installing a new lift shaft and creating a roof terrace, and two applications for the London Westbourne Hotel, 100 - 102 Westbourne Terrace, London, W2 6QE, concerning extensions and the installation of air source heat pumps. Objections for the London Library focused on noise, daylight, privacy, and light pollution from the new terrace and plant equipment. For the Westbourne Hotel, concerns were raised about overlooking, design impact, and visual pollution from plant equipment. These applications highlight the challenges of modernising historic buildings and ensuring new developments are sensitive to their surroundings and neighbours.

Other Matters

The Licensing Sub-Committee (1) met on Thursday 23 July 2026. Link to the meeting here.

This week in Westminster:

Council Faces £71 Million Budget Gap as Financial Challenges Mount

Westminster City Council's Cabinet met on Monday 13 July 2026 to confront a stark financial reality: an indicative budget gap of £71 million in 2027/28, projected to soar to £161 million by 2030/31. This significant shortfall, driven by reduced government funding and increasing demand for services, means tough decisions lie ahead, potentially impacting everything from social care to local amenities. The council is now planning extensive engagement with residents to navigate these challenges, signalling a period of potential service reductions and significant council tax increases.

Financial Outturn Reveals Overspends, Capital Programme Reprofiled

The Cabinet reviewed the council's financial performance for the 2025/26 financial year. A £8.2 million overspend on the General Fund revenue budget was primarily attributed to pressures in temporary accommodation and children's social care – services that are critical lifelines for vulnerable families and individuals. While increased parking income offered some offset, the overspend will be drawn from the General Fund balance. The Housing Revenue Account also reported a £2.1 million overspend, to be met from its reserves.

The capital outturn, however, showed underspends of £92.9 million for the General Fund and £39.6 million for the HRA. These underspends have led to the reprofiling of the 2025/26 capital programme into future years. Reasons cited for these underspends include delays in acquisitions, on-site issues, and the lingering impact of a cyber incident.

Medium-Term Financial Planning: A Call for Resident Input

The council's financial forecast for the next four years paints a challenging picture. The projected budget gap of £71 million in 2027/28 is a substantial increase from previous estimates. To address this, the council intends to engage residents and stakeholders on service priorities and the necessity of potential council tax increases. This engagement campaign aims to inform the public about the scale of the financial challenge and gather input on what services residents value most and wish to protect. The council anticipates that balancing the budget will require both service reductions and a significant rise in council tax. National economic factors, such as inflation and global events, are contributing to these pressures, alongside specific demands within temporary accommodation and social care. The Fit for the Future transformation programme aims to deliver £30 million in recurring savings by 2028/29.

The Cabinet approved the revised medium-term financial planning forecast and endorsed the approach for resident and stakeholder engagement. This marks the initial phase of the annual business planning cycle, with a statutory requirement to set a balanced budget.

Link to the Cabinet meeting here

Licensing Applications for Lockhouse, The Prince Regent, and NQ64 Arcade Bar Under Scrutiny

Westminster's Licensing Sub-Committee (1) was scheduled to consider three significant licensing applications on Thursday 16 July 2026, each with the potential to impact local amenity and public safety. The applications for Lockhouse, The Prince Regent, and NQ64 Arcade Bar highlight the ongoing balancing act between supporting businesses and mitigating potential nuisance for residents.

Lockhouse: Variation Application Faces Resident Objections

The application to vary the premises licence for Lockhouse, 3 Merchant Square, London, W2 1AZ sought to amend its layout and licence conditions, particularly concerning the consumption of alcohol in external areas. Several residents' associations and individuals raised concerns about potential increases in public nuisance and adverse impacts on public safety, citing issues with noise, anti-social behaviour, and alleged licence breaches. The Environmental Health Service also submitted representations, highlighting concerns about clarity and potential impacts on public nuisance and safety. This case demonstrates how local residents can actively participate in the licensing process to protect their neighbourhoods.

The Prince Regent: Boat Bar Application Raises Nuisance Concerns

A new premises licence application for The Prince Regent, 17 Sheldon Square, London, W2 6EP, a boat operating as a bar and kitchen, was also on the agenda. While the Metropolitan Police withdrew their initial opposition after agreed conditions, the Environmental Health Service expressed concerns that the proposed hours and alcohol supply could lead to increased public nuisance and affect public safety. The Hyde Park Estate Association and an amenity society also objected on similar grounds, proposing conditions to limit off-sales and ensure alcohol is only served to seated customers with meals. The Planning Department noted that the boat's temporary planning permission had lapsed, raising questions about its continued presence.

NQ64 Arcade Bar: New Licence for Retro Gaming Bar

The committee was also set to consider a new premises licence for NQ64 Arcade Bar, 5 Goslett Yard, London, WC2H 0ER. This application proposed replacing two existing licences for the premises, which would operate as a retro gaming and arcade bar. While the applicant sought 'like-for-like' activities and hours, with some adjustments, the Environmental Health Service objected due to concerns about public nuisance and safety from regulated entertainment, late-night refreshment, and alcohol supply. The Soho Society also raised concerns about the application being within the West End Cumulative Impact Zone. An individual resident objected, citing previous issues with noise and unruly patrons.

Link to the Licensing Sub-Committee (1) meeting here

Pension Fund Committee Reviews Investment Performance and Future Strategy

The Pension Fund Committee met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to review the financial health and investment strategy of the City of Westminster Pension Fund (COWPF). The committee received updates on administration, governance, financial management, and investment performance, with a particular focus on the fund's £2.23 billion asset value and its future strategic direction.

Investment Performance and Funding Level Decline

The committee reviewed the quarterly performance report up to 31 March 2026. The Fund's invested assets stood at approximately £2.23 billion, a decrease from the previous quarter due to negative investment returns. The Fund delivered a negative absolute return of -2.95% over the quarter, underperforming its benchmark. Over longer periods, the Fund also underperformed its benchmark, with the LCIV Global Equity Quality Fund identified as a key contributor to this underperformance.

The Fund's funding level also reduced from 140% at 31 March 2025 to 126% at 31 March 2026. This decline is primarily due to a reassessment of liabilities and a reduced discount rate, impacting the long-term financial security for pension beneficiaries.

Strategic Options for Investment

The committee considered a comprehensive review of the current Investment Strategy Statement. Following the March 2025 actuarial valuation, three alternative strategic options were presented: a Risk On strategy focused on maximising long-term returns, a Liquidity and Inflation Protection Focus strategy, and a Cashflow Focus option offering a balance. The decision on which strategy to adopt will have significant implications for the future growth and stability of the pension fund. From 31 March 2026, investment implementation will be managed by the London Collective Investment Vehicle (LCIV), requiring the Fund to invest exclusively in LCIV products.

Private Markets and Conflict of Interest Policy

The committee also discussed the merits of the Fund's private markets investments, acknowledging their benefits for diversification and inflation protection but also noting challenges such as higher fees and illiquidity. The report recommended maintaining the existing level of private markets exposure. A draft Conflict of Interest Policy was also presented for approval, a requirement under the Pension Schemes Act 2026, to ensure ethical governance and management of the fund.

Link to the Pension Fund Committee meeting here

Overview and Scrutiny Committee Plans Work Programme and Task Group for Pimlico District Heating

The Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 16 July 2026 to shape its work programme for the upcoming year and to establish a task group to investigate the Pimlico District Heating Undertaking (PDHU) Programme. The committee also reviewed an update from the Leader of the Council and discussed the process for making policy and scrutiny recommendations.

Shaping the 2026/27 Work Programme

The committee began by discussing its work programme for 2026/27, outlining its intention to scrutinise new policies, review implemented ones, and conduct general oversight. The programme aims to promote transparency and accountability, with flexibility to address urgent issues. Members were invited to propose new topics for future scrutiny.

Leader's Update and Corporate Strategy Input

An update from Councillor Paul Swaddle OBE, Leader of the Council, detailed progress on key administration priorities, including an Enforcement Reset, reviews of street schemes, and progress on major contract reviews. The committee was also asked to feed into the development of the council's Corporate Strategy, which aims to provide a clear framework for priorities and delivery in a challenging financial context. Emerging outcome areas such as Safe and welcoming streets and Affordable, high-quality housing were presented for discussion.

Pimlico District Heating Undertaking Task Group

A significant focus was the draft scope for a new task group dedicated to the Pimlico District Heating Undertaking (PDHU) Programme. This task group will investigate the decommissioning of the PDHU and related issues, aiming to inform future decisions by the Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration. Key considerations will include resident engagement, the deliverability of heating options, and the transparency of decision-making processes. The task group is expected to submit recommendations by December 2026, with the goal of improving residents' experiences and ensuring a more evidence-based and transparent approach.

Link to the Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting here

Growth and Planning Committee Tackles NEET Young People and Cabinet Updates

The Growth and Planning and Children's and Education Policy and Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to review its work programme and receive updates from Cabinet Members. A key focus was the critical issue of preventing young people from becoming Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET).

Preventing Young People from Becoming NEET

The committee examined Westminster's arrangements for preventing young people from becoming NEET. As of 1 June 2026, 77 young people aged 16-17 were recorded as NEET, with an additional 15 not known, totalling 92 individuals requiring support. The analysis highlighted Year 13 as a particular pressure point and identified a geographical concentration of NEET young people in North Westminster. The report stressed that disengagement often stems from earlier unmet needs, with attendance being a critical early indicator. The proposed direction of travel focuses on earlier identification, stronger transition planning, better data utilisation, and closer partnerships between various council services, schools, colleges, and employers. The committee was tasked with considering whether current arrangements are robust enough for early intervention and if investment is being made at the right points in the pathway.

Cabinet Updates on Planning and Children's Services

Councillor Tim Barnes, Cabinet Member for Growth and Planning, was scheduled to provide an update covering the Licensing Policy Review, the Oxford Street pedestrianisation, the North Paddington Programme, and Planning and Building Control services. Councillor Hannah Galley, Cabinet Member for Children and Education, was expected to focus on improving school attendance, addressing financial pressures on schools, tackling anxiety among young people, and managing high-cost care placements.

Link to the Growth and Planning and Children's and Education Policy and Scrutiny Committee meeting here

Licensing Committee Reviews Draft Statement of Licensing Policy and Appeals

The Licensing Committee met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to consider the draft Statement of Licensing Policy and receive an update on recent licensing appeals. The committee also reviewed proposed changes to street trading policies.

Draft Statement of Licensing Policy for Consultation

A significant focus was the draft Statement of Licensing Policy, prepared under the Licensing Act 2003. This statutory document, due for publication by 30 September 2026, aims to simplify and streamline existing policies. It includes updated guidance on safety measures, the implications of Martyn's Law¹, and measures to reduce violence against women and girls. The policy also incorporates a new Cumulative Impact Assessment 2026, with revised Special Consideration Zones. The committee was asked to provide comments on the draft policy and an accompanying Good Operator Guide for consultation.

Licensing Appeals and Cost Implications

The committee received an update on recent licensing appeals, noting several withdrawn appeals that resulted in legal costs for the council. Appeals concerning Sunny Corner and Concept saw significant costs awarded to the council. Other appeals were withdrawn with varying cost settlements. Two appeals remain pending: one against the revocation of a premises licence due to illegal workers, and another from local residents against a new premises licence in a Cumulative Impact Zone. A prosecution brought by Global Radio against the Council regarding busking noise in Leicester Square was also discussed, with the Council appealing an Abatement Order.

Link to the Licensing Committee meeting here

Rating Advisory Panel Considers Business Rate Relief Applications

The Rating Advisory Panel met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to review a substantial number of applications for discretionary and hardship relief relating to National Non-Domestic Rates (NNDR), commonly known as business rates. These reliefs are crucial for businesses facing financial difficulties.

Review of NNDR Relief Applications

The panel was scheduled to consider applications detailed across pages 3 to 360 of the public report pack. These discussions were likely to involve exempt information, meaning the public and press would be excluded to protect the privacy of the businesses involved. The specific details of the businesses and the reasons for their applications were not made public in the agenda. The panel's decisions on these applications will directly impact the financial viability of local businesses and their ability to contribute to the local economy.

Link to the Rating Advisory Panel meeting here

Appointments Sub-Committee Meets to Appoint Chief Operating Officer

The Appointments Sub-Committee met on Thursday 16 July 2026 with the primary agenda item being the appointment to the significant role of Chief Operating Officer. The meeting also included standard procedural items such as noting changes to membership and receiving declarations of interest. The appointment of a Chief Operating Officer is a key decision for the council's operational efficiency and strategic direction.

Link to the Appointments Sub-Committee meeting here