The Policy and Resources Committee met on Thursday, 9 July 2026, to discuss a range of governance and financial matters, alongside strategic initiatives for the City of London. Key topics scheduled for consideration included proposals for improving governance efficiencies, the appointment of a lead member for Financial and Professional Services (FPS) skills, and the City of London Corporation's supporter status for the Financial Services Skills Compact. The committee was also set to review benefits-in-kind reporting, receive an update on central funding and charity management, and discuss the establishment of a Zone Coordination Body for heat network zoning.

Governance Efficiencies

The committee was scheduled to consider proposals aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the City Corporation's governance structures. This included a review of committee terms of reference, potential rationalisations and abolitions of committees, and the integration of recommendations from the 2020 Governance Review. Discussions were also planned regarding delegations to sub-committees and officers, and the establishment of a framework for managing changes to the Scheme of Delegations to Officers. Guidance on the appropriate use of for information reports was also on the agenda, with a proposal to consult further with the wider Court of Common Council on these matters.

Appointment of Time-Limited Lead Member for FPS Skills

A report was scheduled for discussion regarding the appointment of a time-limited Lead Member for Financial and Professional Services (FPS) Skills. This role is intended to provide additional senior political capacity to support corporate objectives, particularly in light of significant milestones expected during the 2026/27 municipal year. Deputy Caroline Haines was proposed for this role, building on her previous experience as Vice-Chair of Policy & Resources and her involvement with the Women Pivoting to Digital Taskforce and the Financial Services Skills Commission.

City of London Corporation Supporter Status for the Financial Services Skills Compact

The committee was to consider the City of London Corporation's supporter status for the Financial Services Skills Compact. This initiative, led by the Financial Services Skills Commission and supported by HM Treasury, aims to address skills gaps within the UK financial services sector. While regulated firms are eligible to become signatories with reporting commitments, the City Corporation was invited to become an official supporter, recognising its role in convening and advocating for the sector's competitiveness and long-term sustainability. This supporter status would not incur additional financial or resource commitments.

Benefits-in-Kind 2025/26 Reporting and Update on Digital Transfer

An overview of the City of London Corporation's support to external organisations through Benefits in Kind (BIK) for the 2025/26 financial year was scheduled for review. The report detailed the value and types of BIK provided, including abatements of rent and fees, and the provision of goods or services at reduced charges. An update was also to be provided on the development of a digital process for BIK management and a review of accommodation agreements for external organisations. The agenda included a request for members to agree the annual report, note the digital transfer update, and approve the development of a standard Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for BIK accommodation.

Central Funding & Charity Management Team - Funding Update

The committee was to receive a comprehensive update on the City of London's grant-funding programmes, managed by the Central Funding & Charity Management Team (CFCMT). This included an analysis of the impact of grants awarded through programmes such as the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Fund (CILNF), Stronger Communities Fund (SCF), Inspiring London Through Culture Fund, and Enjoying Green Spaces & the Natural Environment Fund. The report was expected to highlight how these grants contribute to the City of London Corporate Plan's strategic outcomes. A minor administrative amendment to the CILNF Policy and updates to the Officer Panel Terms of Reference were also to be noted. A recommendation to approve the publishing of grants on 360 Giving's GrantNav platform was also on the agenda to enhance transparency.

Party Conferences

An update on preparations for upcoming political party conferences was scheduled for discussion. The report outlined a proposed approach to engagement, including attendance at the Reform Party Conference and the Green Party Conference, with a focus on promoting the City Corporation's strategic priorities and understanding stakeholder perspectives. Revisions to the approach for the Liberal Democrat conference were also to be presented, moving towards a smaller dinner format. The overarching objective for 2026 was to increase understanding of the City Corporation's convening power and its role in driving economic growth.

Heat Network Zoning - Zone Coordination Body (ZCB) - Strategic Options Appraisal (Gateway 2)

The committee was to consider strategic options for the City Corporation's role in a Zone Coordination Body (ZCB) to govern a Heat Network Zone in the Square Mile. This follows the introduction of forthcoming Heat Network Zoning regulations by His Majesty's Government. The report recommended Option 3: for the City Corporation to undertake the ZCB role in partnership with neighbouring Local Authorities. This approach aims to tailor the ZCB structure to the Square Mile's needs while exploring collaborative opportunities for operational efficiencies and consistent governance across authorities. The committee was asked to endorse this preferred option and approve progression to a detailed options appraisal.

Anti-Terrorism Traffic Regulation Order

A report was scheduled for discussion regarding the retention of the Anti-Terrorism Traffic Regulation Order (ATTRO). This permanent order authorises the City Police to control pedestrian and vehicle movement on City streets for counter-terrorism purposes. The report reviewed the usage of the ATTRO since its introduction in 2016, noting its application for special events and the ongoing need for such powers given the City's vulnerability to terrorism. The committee was asked to agree to retain these powers for a further three years.

Innovation & Growth Quarterly Report

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the activities of the Innovation and Growth Department for the period April to June 2026. This report was expected to provide visibility of the outcomes of workstreams focused on promoting the UK's financial and professional services sector, driving innovation, and strengthening the City's ecosystem. Updates on key initiatives such as Connecting Capital, Digital Assets & Markets, AI Implementation in FPS, Sustainable Finance, and Innovation in Economic Security were anticipated.

Decisions Taken Under Delegated Authority or Urgency Powers

A report detailing decisions taken under delegated authority or urgency powers between committee meetings was scheduled for information. This would provide members with an update on actions taken by officers or the Town Clerk in accordance with standing orders.

Questions on Matters Relating to the Work of the Committee

An opportunity was scheduled for members to ask questions on matters relating to the work of the committee.

Any Other Business That the Chairman Considers Urgent

Any urgent items of business not otherwise listed on the agenda, which the Chairman deemed appropriate for discussion, were to be considered.

Exclusion of the Public

A motion was scheduled to exclude the public from the meeting for specific items on the grounds that they involved the likely disclosure of exempt information.

Non-Public Minutes

The committee was scheduled to consider non-public minutes from various sub-committee meetings, including the Resource Allocation Sub-Committee, Capital Buildings Board, and Civic Affairs Sub-Committee.

Transatlantic Trade in Enslaved Africans Report

A report concerning the Transatlantic Trade in Enslaved Africans was scheduled for discussion.

New Museum of London: Delivery Update

An update on the delivery of the New Museum of London project was scheduled for discussion.

Digital Estate Review

A joint report from the Chamberlain and the Executive Director, Communications & External Engagement, concerning a Digital Estate Review was scheduled for discussion.

Riyadh University of Arts (RUA) Component 2 Steering Group

A report regarding the Riyadh University of Arts (RUA) Component 2 Steering Group was scheduled for discussion.

Leadenhall Market: Implementation Plan for Strategic Vision

A report on the implementation plan for the strategic vision of Leadenhall Market was scheduled for information.

Policy and Resources Contingency/Discretionary Funds

An update on the Policy and Resources contingency and discretionary funds was scheduled for information.

Non-Public Appendices to Public Reports

Non-public appendices relating to public reports were scheduled for information.