Amar Virdee | Councillor for Green Street West, Newham

Councillor Amar Virdee

Labour & Co-Operative Green Street West Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector

Positions, Voting Record & Activity Summary

Last updated: about 2 months ago

Councillor Amar Virdee's council service, spanning from 2024 to 2026, has been marked by a consistent and evolving dedication to community safety and housing. His recent years, particularly 2025 and 2026, have seen him take on significant Cabinet responsibilities, allowing him to deeply influence policy and outcomes in these critical areas.

Key Themes and Priorities:

Across his tenure, Virdee has consistently championed community safety and addressed the pressing issue of housing need, homelessness, and the private rented sector. In earlier years (2024), his focus on community safety was evident in his advocacy for tangible initiatives like knife bin deployment, trauma kits, and preventative work with community groups, alongside a strong stance against intrusive technologies like Live Facial Recognition. His housing priorities then centered on delivering affordable homes and exploring community-led solutions.

As his roles expanded, particularly in 2025 and 2026, these themes intensified and became more strategic. He became a key figure in tackling the borough's housing crisis, with a particular emphasis on the complexities of temporary accommodation and homelessness. His work in 2025 involved advocating for expedited housing delivery, mitigating financial risks, and improving social housing quality. In 2026, as Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, his focus sharpened on achieving significant savings within the Housing Needs Service, particularly in temporary accommodation, and emphasizing a preventive approach.

Evolution of Focus:

Virdee's focus has demonstrably evolved from advocating for specific community safety and housing initiatives to leading strategic, high-level efforts to manage and improve these services. While his commitment to resident well-being and safety has remained constant, his responsibilities have grown, allowing him to implement broader, systemic changes. The shift from being a proponent of specific actions (like knife bins in 2024) to a leader driving significant budget savings and policy reforms (like the Renters Act in 2026) highlights this evolution.

Most Significant Contributions (Especially in Recent Years):

In 2026, Virdee's most significant contributions lie in his leadership within the Housing Needs Service. He was instrumental in achieving £8.5 million in savings, largely through improved efficiency in temporary accommodation, and championed a preventive and early intervention approach for residents. His acknowledgment of the challenges in temporary accommodation, describing it as one of the hardest in the country, coupled with pride in the council's endurance and agility, underscores his deep engagement with these complex issues. He also highlighted the Renters Act as a crucial reform for long-term sustainability.

In 2025, his contributions were multifaceted. He played a key role in revising the borough's Statement of Licensing Policy with a focus on women's safety and chaired Cabinet meetings, guiding discussions on governance and strategic plans. His three-pronged approach to tackle the housing emergency – accelerating permanent housing, reducing costs, and slowing demand – led to the approval of significant measures to reduce expenditure and the number of households in temporary accommodation.

Patterns and Consistent Areas of Interest:

A consistent pattern throughout Virdee's service is his emphasis on resident engagement and input. He repeatedly stressed the importance of residents seeing the face value of services and acknowledged the vital role of resident input in decision-making. He also consistently advocates for collaboration, whether with community groups on safety initiatives or with those with lived experience in policy development. His commitment to delivering best value for residents is another recurring theme, evident in his discussions on action plans for improved decision-making and accountability.

Overall, Amar Virdee's council service demonstrates a dedicated public servant whose influence and strategic impact have grown significantly in recent years, particularly in addressing the critical challenges of housing and community safety.

Yearly Activity Timeline

During 2026, Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, was actively involved in discussions regarding the draft budget proposals for 2026-27. A key focus of his contributions was the significant savings of £8.5 million achieved within the Housing Needs Service, particularly in temporary accommodation. He attributed this success to the resilience and agility of the Director of Housing Needs Leadership Team and emphasized the council's commitment to a preventive and early intervention approach for residents. Virdee highlighted the Renters Act as a crucial reform for long-term sustainability and acknowledged the considerable challenges in temporary accommodation, describing it as one of the hardest in the country. He expressed pride in the council's endurance and agility in addressing these issues, crediting progress made with the new transformation board and MXCOG. Virdee also discussed strategic actions to mitigate savings, demonstrating the council's appetite to be less risk-averse and committed to serving residents. He stressed the importance of residents seeing the face value of services and acknowledged that while challenges remain, the council has achieved a balanced budget position, with resident input playing a vital role.

Monthly Activity in 2026

During the January 8, 2026, Additional Cabinet meeting, Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, discussed the draft budget proposals for 2026-27. He highlighted significant savings of £8.5 million within the Housing Needs Service, particularly in temporary accommodation, attributing this success to the resilience and agility of the Director of Housing Needs Leadership Team. Virdee emphasized the council's commitment to residents through a preventive and early intervention approach, noting the Renters Act as a key reform for long-term sustainability. He acknowledged the considerable challenges in temporary accommodation, describing it as one of the hardest in the country, but expressed pride in the council's endurance and agility in addressing these issues, also crediting progress made with the new transformation board and MXCOG. He stated:

I think there's a sense of really good responsibility of what we've achieved so far. And 8.5 makes up the temporary accommodation savings that are being made in housing needs, which have been no easy feat, but I want to pay credit to the Director of Housing Needs Leadership Team that's here, that's been really resilient and agile. to commit to presenting these savings. What we've achieved so far has been no easy testament. The hours that have been put in by Cabinet, the Executive, scrutiny, colleagues, all members and executives that are part of Council to ensure that residence has taken place. 8.5 highlights the savings within the Housing Needs Service and what we've achieved so far, which looks at underspend, which looks at how ourselves been moving to new units and it talks about price negotiations, which often have been a key testament to demonstrate good quality of leadership around what we need to do with suppliers.

Virdee also spoke about the council's strategic actions to mitigate savings:

Back in October, a paper came to CAD, which talked about our strategic actions or being put into place to mitigate the savings we need to make. And I think that demonstrates what we do as a council. It shows that appetite to be less risk averse and actually a demonstration to show to residents that we're committed to serve them. In months to come, we want to make sure that residents actually see the face value of the services that they need to be provided that preventive approach and early intervention.

Regarding reforms and resident engagement, he added:

So one of the key things we want to highlight to residents is, which I know has not been easy in terms of what they're facing, but some of the reform that's been demonstrated by the Labour Administration and Government around the Renters Act is fundamental to ensure sustainability in the long term.

He concluded by acknowledging ongoing challenges but highlighting the balanced budget position and the importance of resident input:

I recognise the challenges are not just going to finish just now. there's still more to come as the years look ahead. It's fundamentally that we don't, what some of the hearings was mentioned around the patients. I think it's really fundamental for us as a council to demonstrate that we aren't taking things to brand new. The budget position, which we've got at the moment, we've shown to be balanced projects, especially for anybody who's been able to do part of the journey, and ultimately residents have played a part in that. I think the engagement sessions that we had provided some really insight and services that they want to see, which has been community safety, public realm was mentioned, children's services, which are really fundamental and not the detriment of compromising what residents can see. And I just want to pay thanks, like I said, for the leadership of the Mayor and everybody here, because this journey has not been easy. Residents have rightly challenged us and I've welcomed that along the way. I think I've carried a big responsibility of looking at temporary accommodation as one of the hardest in the country, but I think we've showed a level of endurance to show that we can be agile, we can be resilient along the way. And I think it's really important around the work that has been put in place, working with the new transformation board, the MXCOG, has showed direction that we are making progress along the way.

Meetings in January 2026

Additional Cabinet, Cabinet - Thursday 8th January 2026 10.30 a.m. - 8 January 2026

Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, discussed the draft budget proposals for 2026-27. He highlighted significant savings of £8.5 million within the Housing Needs Service, specifically in temporary accommodation, attributing this achievement to the resilience and agility of the Director of Housing Needs Leadership Team. Virdee emphasized the council's commitment to residents through a preventive and early intervention approach, noting the Renters Act as a key reform for long-term sustainability. He acknowledged the considerable challenges in temporary accommodation, describing it as one of the hardest in the country, but expressed pride in the council's endurance and agility in addressing these issues, also crediting progress made with the new transformation board and MXCOG. He stated:

I think there's a sense of really good responsibility of what we've achieved so far. And 8.5 makes up the temporary accommodation savings that are being made in housing needs, which have been no easy feat, but I want to pay credit to the Director of Housing Needs Leadership Team that's here, that's been really resilient and agile. to commit to presenting these savings. What we've achieved so far has been no easy testament. The hours that have been put in by Cabinet, the Executive, scrutiny, colleagues, all members and executives that are part of Council to ensure that residence has taken place. 8.5 highlights the savings within the Housing Needs Service and what we've achieved so far, which looks at underspend, which looks at how ourselves been moving to new units and it talks about price negotiations, which often have been a key testament to demonstrate good quality of leadership around what we need to do with suppliers.

Virdee also spoke about the council's strategic actions to mitigate savings:

Back in October, a paper came to CAD, which talked about our strategic actions or being put into place to mitigate the savings we need to make. And I think that demonstrates what we do as a council. It shows that appetite to be less risk averse and actually a demonstration to show to residents that we're committed to serve them. In months to come, we want to make sure that residents actually see the face value of the services that they need to be provided that preventive approach and early intervention.

Regarding reforms and resident engagement, he added:

So one of the key things we want to highlight to residents is, which I know has not been easy in terms of what they're facing, but some of the reform that's been demonstrated by the Labour Administration and Government around the Renters Act is fundamental to ensure sustainability in the long term.

He concluded by acknowledging ongoing challenges but highlighting the balanced budget position and the importance of resident input:

I recognise the challenges are not just going to finish just now. there's still more to come as the years look ahead. It's fundamentally that we don't, what some of the hearings was mentioned around the patients. I think it's really fundamental for us as a council to demonstrate that we aren't taking things to brand new. The budget position, which we've got at the moment, we've shown to be balanced projects, especially for anybody who's been able to do part of the journey, and ultimately residents have played a part in that. I think the engagement sessions that we had provided some really insight and services that they want to see, which has been community safety, public realm was mentioned, children's services, which are really fundamental and not the detriment of compromising what residents can see. And I just want to pay thanks, like I said, for the leadership of the Mayor and everybody here, because this journey has not been easy. Residents have rightly challenged us and I've welcomed that along the way. I think I've carried a big responsibility of looking at temporary accommodation as one of the hardest in the country, but I think we've showed a level of endurance to show that we can be agile, we can be resilient along the way. And I think it's really important around the work that has been put in place, working with the new transformation board, the MXCOG, has showed direction that we are making progress along the way.

Throughout 2025, Amar Virdee, in his multifaceted roles as Councillor, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, and Deputy Mayor, was a highly active participant in council proceedings. A central theme of his work revolved around addressing the borough's housing crisis, including the significant challenges of temporary accommodation and homelessness. He consistently advocated for strategies to expedite housing delivery, mitigate financial risks associated with temporary housing, and improve the quality of social housing, referencing issues like the C4 rating and the need for refurbishment of Council-owned assets.

Virdee also demonstrated a strong commitment to community safety, emphasizing resident empowerment in reporting hate crime and engaging with sensitive subjects like exploitation and modern-day slavery. He played a key role in revising and presenting the borough's Statement of Licensing Policy, aiming for a rewritten, modern, and constructive policy that prioritizes women's safety. His leadership was evident in his chairing of Cabinet meetings, where he facilitated discussions on governance, workers' rights, and strategic plans, including the Community Opportunities agenda and the Building of Fear Renewal vision.

He consistently stressed the importance of collaboration with residents and those with lived experience, acknowledging the learning curves involved in sensitive policy development. Virdee also addressed the delivering best value for our residents report, outlining action plans for improved decision-making and accountability, and candidly discussing the council's capabilities and limitations with residents. His efforts in November were particularly focused on a three-pronged approach to tackle the housing emergency by accelerating permanent housing, reducing costs, and slowing demand, leading to the approval of significant measures to reduce expenditure and the number of households in temporary accommodation.

While his activity varied month-to-month, with some months showing limited recorded statements, Virdee's overall engagement throughout 2025 was characterized by a proactive approach to complex issues, a focus on resident well-being, and a commitment to improving council services and governance.

Monthly Activity in 2025

During the December 8th, 2025 council meeting, Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, addressed a question about a proposed police station hub on East Ham High Street. While acknowledging the Met Police's authority, he stressed the significance of police visibility and highlighted ongoing community safety initiatives aimed at ensuring police presence during later hours and aligning shift patterns with local priorities. Virdee emphasized that East Ham is a high-priority area and that instilling resident confidence is crucial, mentioning the role of neighbourhood watch schemes, ward panels, and neighbourhood forums. He also noted the focus on winter and summer action plans, referencing investments in East Ham and a 'pride of place' initiative, indicating a broader approach to safeguarding.

Meetings in December 2025

Cabinet - Tuesday 16th December 2025 10.30 a.m. - 16 December 2025

Councillor Amar Virdee, in their role as Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Housing Needs, Homelessness and Private Rented Sector, and Community Safety, was present at the Cabinet meeting on December 16th, 2025. However, the available documentation does not indicate that they spoke or took any specific action during the meeting.

Council - Monday 8th December 2025 7.00 p.m. - 8 December 2025

Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, responded to a question from Councillor Femi Falola regarding the proposal for a police station hub on East Ham High Street. Councillor Virdee acknowledged that the decision rests with the Met Police but emphasized the importance of active police visibility. He highlighted the work of community safety initiatives in ensuring police presence during later hours and aligning shift patterns with priorities. He stated that East Ham is a high priority area for the local authority and stressed the importance of instilling confidence in residents through neighbourhood watch schemes, ward panels, and neighbourhood forums. Councillor Virdee also mentioned the focus on winter and summer action plans, referencing announcements about investment in East Ham and the 'pride of place' initiative, indicating that safeguarding extends beyond just the high street.

During the November 18th, 2025 Cabinet meeting, Amar Virdee, in his capacity as Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, took a leading role in addressing the borough's housing emergency. He introduced and presented a report on strategies to increase affordable temporary accommodation and tackle homelessness, highlighting the significant financial burden of temporary accommodation, costing over £100m annually and contributing to a £150m funding gap. Virdee outlined a three-pronged approach: accelerating permanent housing, reducing costs through commercial negotiations and acquisitions, and slowing demand by strengthening prevention and income maximization efforts. He also discussed challenges, such as the 90-minute journey time policy for temporary accommodation, which limits property availability. Following his presentation, the Cabinet approved the proposed approach to reduce expenditure and the number of households in temporary accommodation, endorsed a revised Housing Placement Policy, allocated £1.7m for the enhanced Homelessness Response Programme, and delegated authority for policy finalization. The Cabinet also agreed to review the Social Housing Allocations Policy and noted the intention to review households in temporary accommodation for resettlement programs.

Meetings in November 2025

Cabinet - Tuesday 18th November 2025 11.30 a.m. - 18 November 2025

As the Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, Amar Virdee introduced Item 11, focusing on increasing affordable temporary accommodation supply and tackling homelessness in Newham. He presented a report detailing a strategic response to the housing emergency, highlighting national market failures and the significant financial impact of temporary accommodation, which costs over £100m annually and contributes to a projected £150m funding gap. He emphasized that addressing temporary accommodation pressures is crucial for financial stability and the response to the non-statutory best value notice, stressing the need to tackle root causes of financial insecurity and income generation.

Virdee outlined a three-pronged strategy: accelerating permanent housing, reducing costs through commercial negotiations and acquisitions, and slowing demand via strengthened prevention and income maximization. He noted successes in homeless avoidance and improving private sector accommodation standards, but identified the 90-minute journey time policy for temporary accommodation as a key challenge limiting property availability.

In the subsequent discussion, he was asked for clarification on the 90-minute policy, with a suggestion that a change had already been agreed. Following his introduction, Cabinet resolved to approve the proposed approach to reduce expenditure and the number of households in temporary accommodation, endorse the revised Housing Placement Policy, allocate up to £1.7m for the enhanced Homelessness Response Programme, and delegate authority for finalizing the policy. Cabinet also agreed to initiate a review of the Social Housing Allocations Policy and noted the intention to review households in temporary accommodation for resettlement programs.

During October 2025, Amar Virdee had no recorded activity or statements in the provided council meeting documents.

Meetings in October 2025

Cabinet - Thursday 23rd October 2025 10.30 a.m. - 23 October 2025

There is no record of Amar Virdee speaking or taking any action in the provided documents for the Cabinet meeting on 2025-10-23.

During September 2025, Amar Virdee attended the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting on the 15th. The following day, at the Cabinet meeting on September 16th, he introduced the report on Newham Living: Stratford & Forest Gate Assets Refurbishment Proposals. He explained that the report advocated for capital investment to refurbish two Council-owned assets to bring them back into use.

Meetings in September 2025

Cabinet - Tuesday 16th September 2025 10.30 a.m. - 16 September 2025

Councillor Amar Virdee, Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, introduced the report on Newham Living: Stratford & Forest Gate Assets Refurbishment Proposals . He explained that the report recommended capital investment to refurbish two Council-owned assets, aiming to bring them back into use.

Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee - Monday 15th September 2025 1.00 p.m. - 15 September 2025

Amar Virdee was present at the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting on September 15th, 2025. No specific statements or actions were recorded for him in the minutes.

In July 2025, Amar Virdee was appointed Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector. In this capacity, he addressed the delivering best value for our residents report, emphasizing the council's commitment to a courageous and open response to a non-statutory best value notice. Virdee outlined an action plan focused on improving decision-making, financial planning, and accountability, stressing the importance of financial sustainability, a savings program, and enhanced oversight. He also highlighted the initiative as an opportunity to restore resident trust. Virdee acknowledged the significant temporary accommodation crisis, with 7,000 individuals in temporary accommodation and 40,000 on the housing register, attributing challenges to population growth and net migration. He detailed efforts to collaborate with private rented sector partners and combat homelessness, while stressing the need for candor with residents about the council's capabilities and limitations.

Meetings in July 2025

Cabinet - Tuesday 22nd July 2025 10.30 a.m. - 22 July 2025

Amar Virdee, in his capacity as Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, addressed the delivering best value for our residents report. He underscored the gravity of the non-statutory best value notice and the council's dedication to a courageous and open response. Virdee outlined the action plan, which includes enhancing decision-making, financial planning, and cultivating an accountable culture, stating that the political leadership team fully supports the notice and is committed to driving improvements.

He emphasized the critical need for financial sustainability, a demanding savings program, and improved financial oversight, forecasting, and transparency. Virdee asserted that this initiative is not merely a procedural step but will fundamentally shape the council's operations and serve as an opportunity to restore resident trust. He also highlighted the importance of modeling appropriate behaviors and learning from government and the independent improvement board.

Later, Virdee reiterated the commitment to transparency and openness with residents regarding the best value notice. He acknowledged the significant temporary accommodation crisis, noting that 7,000 individuals are in temporary accommodation and 40,000 are on the housing register. He pointed to the council's advancements in prevention and relief services, moving from a poor to a leading national position. Virdee also cited population growth and net migration as contributing factors to the challenges in temporary accommodation. He detailed efforts to collaborate with private rented sector partners, recognize compliant landlords, and implement diverse strategies to combat homelessness. He stressed the necessity of being candid with residents about the council's capabilities and limitations, recognizing the national scope of the homelessness crisis.

Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee - Thursday 17th July 2025 2.00 p.m. - 17 July 2025

Councillor Amar Virdee was a member of the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee for the meeting on July 17, 2025. The reports pack confirms his membership on the panel, which also included the Mayor (Chair), Rokhsana Fiaz, Councillor Charlene McLean, Councillor Zulfiqar Ali, Councillor Mehmood Mirza, and Councillor Sarah Ruiz. There is no record of specific statements or actions made by Councillor Virdee in the provided documents beyond his membership.

Council - Monday 14th July 2025 7.00 p.m. - 14 July 2025

Amar Virdee was appointed as Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector.

During June 2025, Amar Virdee was present at the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting on June 16th, with no specific actions recorded. In his role as Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, he actively chaired the Cabinet meeting on June 17th. He opened the meeting, set etiquette, and acknowledged achievements of other councillors. Virdee also led a moment of reflection for victims of the India crash, facilitated declarations of interest, and announced an appointment to the West Ham Ecclesiastical Trust Charitable Trust. He presented the LGA action plan, highlighting financial sustainability and corporate plan alignment, and questioned the impact of tenant engagement on housing improvements. A significant portion of his involvement was dedicated to the Community Opportunities agenda item, where he sought detailed clarifications on its alignment with the Building of Fear Renewal vision, co-design outcomes, specialist provider integration, community wealth building, inequality mitigation for VCF sector groups, and the application of a best value lens to framework admissions and market maturity. He concluded this discussion by moving to the recommendations.

Meetings in June 2025

Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee - Monday 23rd June 2025 10.00 a.m. - 23 June 2025

Councillor Amar Virdee was a member of the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee and was consulted on the recruitment process for the Director of Housing Needs role. However, the available documentation does not indicate that he spoke or took any specific action during the meeting.

Cabinet - Tuesday 17th June 2025 10.00 a.m. - 17 June 2025

Amar Virdee, in his capacity as Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, played an active role in the Cabinet meeting. He opened the meeting, welcomed attendees, and outlined meeting etiquette. He also took a moment to acknowledge positive achievements, commending Councillor John Whitworth for a net zero award and Councillor Charlie McLean for library recognition, and led a moment of reflection for victims of the India crash. Virdee facilitated declarations of interest and announced the appointment of Councillor Blossom Young to the West Ham Ecclesiastical Trust Charitable Trust. He presented the LGA action plan, detailing progress and future steps, emphasizing financial sustainability and alignment with the corporate plan. He also inquired about the impact of increased tenant engagement on housing improvement work. Virdee engaged in a detailed discussion on the Community Opportunities agenda item, seeking clarification on alignment with the Building of Fear Renewal vision, co-design outcomes, specialist provider alignment, community wealth building impacts, mitigation of inequality among VCF sector groups, and the application of a best value lens to framework admissions and market maturity. He concluded this discussion by moving to the recommendations.

Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee - Monday 16th June 2025 1.00 p.m. - 16 June 2025

Amar Virdee was present at the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee meeting on 2025-06-16. No specific statements or actions were recorded for him in the minutes.

During May 2025, Amar Virdee was appointed as a Deputy Mayor, sharing statutory responsibility which will be rotated. He also presided over a Cabinet meeting on May 29th in his capacity as Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector. In this role, he welcomed attendees, outlined meeting procedures, and explained the emergency provisions for discussing Juniper Ventures Limited's proposed employee terms and conditions. Virdee facilitated discussions on scrutiny recommendations and executive responses, emphasizing the administration's commitment to good governance, workers' rights, and the need for challenging conversations with trade unions. He also mentioned the Mayor of London's Eat for Free initiative and the council's engagement with GLA officers. He concluded the meeting by thanking participants and confirming agreement on recommendations.

Meetings in May 2025

Call In, Cabinet - Thursday 29th May 2025 9.15 a.m., PROVISIONAL - 29 May 2025

Councillor Amar Virdee, in his capacity as Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, presided over the Cabinet meeting on May 29, 2025. He welcomed attendees, including new councillors, and outlined the meeting's procedures, including its live streaming and the use of virtual hands for remote participation. Virdee explained that the meeting was convened under emergency provisions to discuss Juniper Ventures Limited's proposed employee terms and conditions changes, noting that supplementary and exempt documents would be considered under the Exclusion of Press and Public provision. He sought advice from the Monitoring Officer on entering the exempt session. Virdee facilitated the discussion of agenda items, inviting Councillor Hudson to present scrutiny recommendations and Councillor Neil Wilson to introduce the Executive Response. He acknowledged the value of scrutiny and reflected on the challenging macroeconomic climate, emphasizing the administration's commitment to good governance and the MTFS period. Virdee highlighted the need for serious discussions about the future of externalized bodies like LATCOs and asserted the administration's support for workers' rights, acknowledging the necessity of challenging conversations with trade unions. He also mentioned the Mayor of London's Eat for Free initiative and the council's engagement with GLA officers. Virdee concluded the meeting by thanking officers and Councillor Hudson, describing the session as enjoyable, engaged, interesting, and useful. He confirmed agreement on the recommendations, including an additional one concerning exempt appendix 21, and noted the exclusion of press and public for specific agenda items.

Annual Meeting, Council - Thursday 22nd May 2025 7.00 p.m. - 22 May 2025

Amar Virdee was appointed as a Deputy Mayor, sharing statutory responsibility which will be rotated across three individuals. No specific statements or actions were attributed to them in the provided transcript.

Cabinet - Tuesday 6th May 2025 10.30 a.m. - 6 May 2025

As Deputy Mayor, Amar Virdee chaired the Cabinet meeting on May 6th, 2025. He welcomed attendees, reflected on recent community events (the Walter Tolls plaque unveiling and the Sustainable Newham Green Fair), and encouraged attendance at VE Day events. He emphasized the importance of the Just Transition Plan and ensuring equitable distribution of climate adaptation costs. He declined a deputation request due to constitutional limitations, offering an alternative meeting with council members and officers, stating:

We do not have provisions for deputations, any committees of the council, be that full council or cabinet. So in that regard, I am going to have to decline the deputation request because I don't have any constitutional ability to be able to allow that deputation to happen.

He clarified the consultation process for Calverton Primary School. He oversaw discussions on various agenda items, including school reorganization, property disposals, the Stratford Vision, the Household Support Fund, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, food waste services, and the Just Transition plan. He sought declarations of interest, managed meeting proceedings, requested an amendment to recommendation 2.3 of the property disposals asset realization plan, and tasked officers with providing enhanced evaluation for the Household Support Fund and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Councillor Virdee is also listed as a Cabinet Member for Housing Needs, Homelessness and Private Rented Sector and Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Crime.

During April 2025, Amar Virdee, in his roles as Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, and Councillor, was active in two council meetings. He opened the Cabinet meeting on April 1st by acknowledging Newham's 60th anniversary. He played a significant role in discussions regarding the Poplar Living Business Plan, defending the council's housing delivery strategy in response to a raging housing crisis and crippling costs of temporary accommodation. Virdee also sought clarification on the Highway and Maintenance Plan report and detailed the financing of the 2025-2026 capital program, emphasizing housing investments and the council's borrowing strategy. On April 28th, Councillor Virdee introduced the sixth revised Statement of Licensing Policy, highlighting its compliance with the Licensing Act 2003 and its support for the Building a Safer Newham priority. He described the policy as rewritten to be constructive and modern. Additionally, he was commended for his research into potentially including Stratford Olympic Park and Royal Victoria wards in landlord licensing.

Meetings in April 2025

Council - Monday 28th April 2025 7.00 p.m. - 28 April 2025

Councillor Amar Virdee introduced the report on the Statement of Licensing Policy, noting it was the sixth revised version aimed at complying with the Licensing Act 2003 and supporting the Corporate Plan Priority 4 of Building a Safer Newham. He described the policy as rewritten to be constructive and modern, offering information to various stakeholders. Additionally, Councillor Amar Virdee was commended for his research concerning the potential inclusion of Stratford Olympic Park and Royal Victoria wards in landlord licensing.

Cabinet - Tuesday 1st April 2025 11.30 a.m. - 1 April 2025

Amar Virdee, in his capacity as Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, opened the Cabinet meeting by acknowledging Newham's 60th anniversary, highlighting the borough's journey and its vibrant community.

He was a key figure in the discussion on the Poplar Living Business Plan, presenting the executive's response to call-in recommendations and defending the council's housing delivery strategy amidst a raging housing crisis and the crippling costs of temporary accommodation.

Virdee also participated in the discussion of the Highway and Maintenance Plan report, seeking clarification. Furthermore, he introduced the agenda item concerning the financing of the 2025-2026 capital program, detailing planned investments, especially in housing, and explaining the council's borrowing approach.

During March 2025, Amar Virdee, in his capacity as Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, and Deputy Mayor, actively participated in council meetings. He provided updates on social housing improvements, addressing the C4 rating and emphasizing the administration's commitment to improvement. Virdee also introduced the business plan for Popolo Living, detailing its strategic shift to a development manager role to expedite housing delivery and mitigate financial risks associated with temporary accommodation. Furthermore, he presented a revised borough statement of licensing policy, characterizing it as a rewritten, modern, and constructive policy that prioritizes women's safety and aims for accessibility and practicality. In addition, Virdee was present at the Council Meeting on February 27th, 2025 (though the activity is listed under the March 24th meeting date) and voted in favor of the Final Budget Proposals for 2025/26.

Meetings in March 2025

Council - Monday 24th March 2025 7.30 p.m. - 24 March 2025

Amar Virdee was present at the Council Meeting on 27th February 2025 and voted in favour of the recommendations regarding the Final Budget Proposals for 2025/26.

Cabinet - Tuesday 4th March 2025 10.30 a.m. - 4 March 2025

Amar Virdee, as Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, and Deputy Mayor, provided updates and introduced key reports. He presented the quarterly update on social housing improvements, acknowledging the C4 rating from the Regulator of Social Housing and stating the administration's commitment to reversing this position. He also introduced the business plan for Popolo Living, explaining its strategic shift to a development manager role to accelerate housing delivery and manage financial risks, particularly in relation to temporary accommodation. Finally, he introduced the revised borough statement of licensing policy, describing it as a rewritten, modern, and constructive policy that includes women's safety as a key focus and aims to be accessible and practical.

During February 2025, Amar Virdee's activity was limited to attendance at the SACRE meeting on February 26th. No specific statements or actions were recorded for this meeting.

Meetings in February 2025

Council - Thursday 27th February 2025 7.00 p.m. - 27 February 2025

Amar Virdee was present at the Council meeting on February 27, 2025. The reports pack also indicates he was present at the Extraordinary Council meeting and the Council meeting on December 16, 2024. However, there is no record of him speaking or taking any specific action during any of these meetings.

SACRE - Wednesday 26th February 2025 7.00 p.m. - 26 February 2025

There is no record of Amar Virdee saying or doing anything in the provided documents for the SACRE meeting on 2025-02-26.

Call In, Cabinet - Monday 24th February 2025 2.00 p.m. - 24 February 2025

As Deputy Mayor, Amar Virdee chaired the Cabinet meeting on February 24, 2025. He opened the meeting, noting health concerns for the Pope and the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He then proceeded to manage the agenda, including asking for apologies for absence and drawing attention to declarations of interest. He introduced reports from overview and scrutiny, specifically regarding the restoration and regeneration of the carcasses and state programme update, and the development of the People Power Places plan, inviting Councillors McCormick and McLean to introduce the items and provide executive responses, respectively. He reminded members about the exempt appendices and the process for referring to them. He also explained the process for noting recommendations of overview and scrutiny and provided the executive response to the recommendations regarding the Carpenter's Estate program. He facilitated the decision-making process for confirming or amending original decisions related to these programs, and sought agreement to note the People Powered Places Program Executive Response. He also noted the exclusion of the press and public and the exempt appendices for agenda item 3.

Cabinet - Tuesday 18th February 2025 10.30 a.m. - 18 February 2025

There is no record of Amar Virdee saying or doing anything in the provided documents for the Cabinet meeting on 2025-02-18.

Part Two, Cabinet - Tuesday 4th February 2025 10.00 a.m. - 4 February 2025

There is no record of Amar Virdee speaking or taking any action in the provided transcript for the Part Two, Cabinet meeting on 2025-02-04.

During January 2025, Amar Virdee, Councillor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, and Deputy Mayor, was active in council meetings. He addressed the Regulator of Social Housing's Inspection Report, assuring residents of the Council's commitment to rectifying the situation, stating,

everyone, including the Chief Executive, was working on the process.

Virdee also highlighted the draft initial programme of works as a key focus for Community Safety, emphasizing resident empowerment in reporting hate crime. He committed to continued resident engagement and stressed the importance of effective collaboration with residents and those with lived experience, particularly in sensitive areas. This approach was noted as a learning curve for all involved. Virdee also discussed his involvement in the sex work strategy and reflected on the process of addressing sensitive subjects like exploitation and modern-day slavery, acknowledging the adaptation of engagement methods by partners such as the Metropolitan Police and reiterating the crucial role of residents in this methodology.

Meetings in January 2025

Cabinet - Thursday 9th January 2025 10.30 a.m. - 9 January 2025

Amar Virdee, Councillor and Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, and Deputy Mayor, spoke on multiple agenda items. Regarding the Council's response to the Regulator of Social Housing's Inspection Report, he reassured residents that the Council would rectify the situation, emphasizing that everyone, including the Chief Executive, was working on the process. He also addressed the draft initial programme of works, highlighting it as an area of focus for Community Safety, with efforts to share good practices and empower residents to report hate crime. Virdee also made a commitment to continue resident engagement at the appropriate level and spoke about the importance of effective collaboration with residents and those with lived experience, particularly in sensitive areas. He noted that this collaborative approach, using appropriate language and building communication lines, served as a valuable learning curve for cabinet members, officers, and the council as a whole. He specifically mentioned the work on the sex work strategy, acknowledging his involvement and thanking officers. Virdee also reflected on the process of addressing sensitive subject matters, including exploitation and modern-day slavery, and how partners like the Metropolitan Police have adapted their engagement methods. He stressed that residents are a key part of this methodological approach.

Throughout 2024, Amar Virdee demonstrated a strong commitment to community safety, housing, and local governance. He was appointed to the Local Government Association General Assembly in June and later as a Deputy Member of the London Council Transport and Environment Committee in July, indicating his expanding role in regional policy. A significant focus of his work was on community safety, particularly addressing knife crime. He actively promoted initiatives like knife bin deployment, trauma kits, and preventative work with community groups, advocating for increased local policing presence. Virdee also voiced strong opposition to the use of Live Facial Recognition technology due to privacy concerns. In housing, he championed affordable housing solutions, highlighting the development of the first community-led housing project in Newham and emphasizing the commitment to delivering genuine and affordable homes that local people can afford. He also played a key role in discussions around the Right Care, Right Person initiative, particularly its implications for children and young people. His responsibilities evolved throughout the year, culminating in his appointment as Cabinet Member for Housing Need, Homelessness and Private Rented Sector in December.

Monthly Activity in 2024

During December 2024, Amar Virdee was appointed as Cabinet Member for Housing Need, Homelessness and Private Rented Sector by the Mayor.

Meetings in December 2024

Extraordinary, Council - Monday 16th December 2024 6.30 p.m. - 16 December 2024

As Deputy Mayor, Amar Virdee introduced the nominations for honorary freedom of the London Borough of Newham, presenting Lynn Brown and Paulette Watson MBE as the nominees. He highlighted Lynn Brown's contributions as a former MP and councillor, particularly her advocacy for fair funding and her connection to Newham. He also acknowledged Paulette Watson MBE's service to the community.

He thanked the civic awards panel members, Councillors Rohit Dasgupta and Danny Keeling, and the youth empowerment service for their involvement. He then opened the report up for debate, stating:

So I commend this report to members and through the chair open up to debate as she wishes. Thank you. Do I have a second to please?

He acknowledged Councillor Jenny Keeling as the seconder.

Council - Monday 16th December 2024 7.00 p.m. - 16 December 2024

Amar Virdee was appointed as Cabinet Member for Housing Need, Homelessness and Private Rented Sector by the Mayor.

Cabinet - Tuesday 3rd December 2024 9.30 a.m. - 3 December 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee attended the Cabinet meeting on December 3rd, 2024, in their capacity as Cabinet Member for Housing Needs, Homelessness and Private Rented Sector and Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Crime. The Mayor clarified that despite portfolio changes and the addition of Councillor Blossom Young, Councillor Virdee would retain his role and involvement in Community Safety and Crime. Councillor Virdee introduced a report concerning Community Led Housing: Grant of long leasehold interest in Land within Canning Town North.

During the November 5th, 2024 Cabinet meeting, Councillor Amar Virdee, Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, clarified his continued responsibilities for community safety and crime. He introduced agenda item 6, a proposal to lease unused land to e16 Community Land Trust (CLT) for affordable housing. Virdee explained the role of CLTs and highlighted this initiative as a commitment to delivering genuine and affordable homes that local people can afford. He detailed the plan for e16 CLT to develop the land, secure planning permission and finance, and construct homes to be sold at an affordable price, ensuring long-term affordability for local residents. Virdee described this as the first community-led housing development in Newham and a really significant and important reflection of delivery since 2018. He also mentioned a commitment to identifying at least one additional community-led housing site, while acknowledging the ongoing need for significant scale of housing delivery.

Meetings in November 2024

Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee - Wednesday 20th November 2024 9.00 a.m. - 20 November 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee was a member of the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee for the meeting held on November 20, 2024. There is no record of specific statements or actions attributed to him in the provided documents beyond his membership on the committee.

Cabinet - Tuesday 5th November 2024 10.30 a.m. - 5 November 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee, Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, clarified that Councillor Amoverde retains responsibilities for community safety and crime. Virdee introduced agenda item 6, concerning the proposal to lease unused land to e16 Community Land Trust (CLT) for affordable homes. He explained that CLTs are non-profit organizations that develop and maintain community assets, empowering local people. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with the administration's commitment to supporting CLTs and delivering genuine and affordable homes that local people can afford. He stated that the report details leasing unused land at nil cost to e16 CLT, which will seek planning permission, source finance, and manage construction. The homes will be sold at an affordable price for local residents and kept affordable for future buyers, marking the first community-led housing development in Newham. Virdee emphasized this as a really significant and important reflection of delivery since 2018, noting the complexity of the sites and financials but assuring that homes will be available to people with a clear connection i.e. proximity within the geography of Newham. Regarding identifying further community-led housing sites, he mentioned a commitment to identifying at least one other site, acknowledging the challenges alongside the significant mobilisation round on locking land asset for affordable homes. He also noted the ongoing work to identify a second site, stressing that it is not a replacement for the significant scale of housing delivery that we need to achieve.

During October 2024, Councillor Amar Virdee was active in two council meetings, focusing on community safety and educational initiatives. In the meeting on October 21st, he provided an update on knife crime and community safety, highlighting the increase under the previous government and welcoming the new Anti Knife Crime Coalition. He emphasized the coalition's aims to tackle root causes, ban certain weapons, disrupt online sales, and implement stronger sentencing, with a goal to halve knife crime in 10 years. Virdee stated,

The impact on knife crime impacts victim (s), families, wider community which can lead to a heightened level of fear, tension, and continued ripple effects. I spent time speaking with family members who attended the knife crime summit last week and l will be forging greater partnerships with them and others in our continued our approach in addressing this issue.

He also discussed Newham's efforts in knife surrendering, the deployment of knife bins and trauma kits, and his involvement in the violence reduction unit multi-faith alliance core steering group. Virdee stressed the importance of youth empowerment and children's services in preventing crime and advocated for greater policing responsibility and standards locally, noting the pledge for more officers and increased funding. He concluded by encouraging support for a motion on tackling knife crime.

In the meeting on October 23rd, as Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, Virdee congratulated the team on winning a London-wide Interfaith Award for their work with student RE Matters. He inquired about the communication plan for the award and found the engagement data insightful, particularly grassroots involvement in primary schools. Virdee raised concerns about secondary school engagement, asking about challenges, funding activation, and difficulties encountered. He suggested that a free RE newsletter could benefit schools lacking CPD budgets and agreed with tracking access to meeting recordings. He proposed that strengthening relationships with secondary schools could boost attendance at network meetings and reiterated the need to understand and address secondary school attendance challenges and explore ways to activate funding more effectively. He also commented positively on the annual self-evaluation kit and actions and the grassroots engagement it revealed.

Meetings in October 2024

SACRE - Wednesday 23rd October 2024 6.30 p.m. - 23 October 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee, Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, congratulated the team on winning a London-wide Interfaith Award for their work with student RE Matters, viewing it as a testament to the team's hard work and a positive example of Newham's initiatives. He inquired about the communication plan for the award to help disseminate the message. Virdee found the engagement data insightful, particularly the grassroots involvement of primary schools. He raised concerns about secondary school engagement, asking about challenges, potential funding activation, and difficulties encountered. He also questioned the correlation between GCSE RE results and meeting attendance, noting that some high-achieving schools were not participating. Virdee suggested that the free RE newsletter could benefit schools lacking CPD budgets and agreed with tracking access to meeting recordings. He proposed that strengthening relationships with secondary schools through student RE matters could boost attendance at network meetings. Acknowledging budget pressures on schools, he reiterated the need to understand and address secondary school attendance challenges and explore ways to activate funding more effectively. He also commented positively on the annual self-evaluation kit and actions and the grassroots engagement it revealed.

Themed, Council - Monday 21st October 2024 7.00 p.m. - 21 October 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee provided an update on knife crime and community safety. He highlighted the increase in knife crime under the previous government and welcomed the new Anti Knife Crime Coalition announced by the Prime Minister and Home Secretary. He stated the coalition's aims to tackle root causes, ban ninja swords, disrupt online sales of illegal knives, and implement stronger sentencing, with a goal to halve knife crime in 10 years.

The impact on knife crime impacts victim (s), families, wider community which can lead to a heightened level of fear, tension, and continued ripple effects. I spent time speaking with family members who attended the knife crime summit last week and l will be forging greater partnerships with them and others in our continued our approach in addressing this issue.

Virdee mentioned Newham's efforts in encouraging safe knife surrendering and the deployment of new knife bins and trauma kits to youth zones, community centres, and places of worship. He also noted his involvement in the violence reduction unit multi-faith alliance core steering group and hosting a job event for young people. He emphasized the importance of youth empowerment and children's services in offering pathways out of crime.

I stress the need for greater policing responsibility and standards locally within Newham and I recognise the pledge to put more police and PCSO officers within our communities and the increase in funding by Mayor of London in creating a safer place for every resident not only in London but within Newham.

He concluded by encouraging members to endorse a forthcoming motion on tackling knife crime.

Cabinet - Tuesday 1st October 2024 10.30 a.m. - 1 October 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee, the Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Crime, was present at the Cabinet meeting on October 1st, 2024. However, the provided minutes do not record any specific statements or actions attributed to him during the meeting.

During the September 16th, 2024 council meeting, Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, provided an update on community safety and knife crime. He highlighted initiatives such as knife bin deployment and trauma kits, and emphasized the need for increased local policing presence. Virdee advocated for more officers on the beat rather than a traditional police station, and stressed the importance of preventative work with community groups. He also expressed strong opposition to the use of Live Facial Recognition technology in Newham due to privacy and bias concerns, stating he had communicated this to the Home Secretary and Deputy Mayor for Police and Crime. Virdee also invited collaboration with partners to identify suitable locations for knife bin deployment.

Meetings in September 2024

Council - Monday 16th September 2024 7.00 p.m. - 16 September 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, provided an update on community safety and knife crime. He welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement of an Anti-Knife Crime Coalition focused on tackling root causes and mentioned initiatives like knife bin deployment and trauma kits in Newham. He also stressed the need for greater policing presence and standards locally. Virdee responded to questions regarding the reopening of Stratford Olympic Park police station, advocating for more officers on the beat rather than a traditional station. He further elaborated on the importance of knife bins, acknowledging that more needs to be done and emphasizing preventative work with community groups. He also expressed his opposition to the use of Live Facial Recognition technology in Newham due to privacy concerns and potential biases, stating he had written to the Home Secretary and Deputy Mayor for Police and Crime on the matter. Virdee also extended an invitation to work with partners on identifying areas for knife bin deployment.

Cabinet - Tuesday 3rd September 2024 10.30 a.m. - 3 September 2024

Amar Virdee, in his role as Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, actively participated in the Cabinet meeting. He spoke in support of the Custom House acquisitions of Chantler Close, emphasizing the administration's commitment to supporting those facing homelessness and highlighting the program's financial benefits.

And the class, and as administration, we have always done our best support of that just because they deserve respect and dignity. And that is what this administration is trying to do.

In terms of the financial implications, the return evaluation has confirmed that this is value for money, and the capital costs will be funded through the potential borrowing.

He also responded to concerns about the rehousing of Chantler Close residents. Virdee contributed to discussions on the Stratford Original BID renewal ballot, emphasizing its importance for Stratford's growth, and the Microsoft Agreement EA, focusing on the role of IT in organizational transformation and cost-effectiveness. He raised questions about the link between Microsoft licensing and the new operating model, potential procurement delays, and funding allocation, seeking assurance of an efficient procurement process.

During August 2024, Amar Virdee served as a member of the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee. No specific statements or actions were recorded for him during this meeting.

Meetings in August 2024

Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee - Thursday 8th August 2024 2.00 p.m. - 8 August 2024

Amar Virdee was a member of the Chief Officer Appointments Sub-Committee for the meeting on 2024-08-08. No specific statements or actions were recorded for him in the provided documents.

Cabinet - Tuesday 6th August 2024 10.30 a.m. - 6 August 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Crime, was present at the Cabinet meeting on August 6th, 2024. However, the provided reports pack contains no record of him speaking or taking any specific action during the meeting.

During the July 16th, 2024 Cabinet meeting, Councillor Amar Virdee, in his role as Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, opened the meeting by acknowledging a tragic house fire in East Ham and proposing a minute of silence for the victims and their families. He also noted upcoming funerals for a former councillor and Tony Wilson's mother. Virdee managed the meeting's procedural aspects, including housekeeping rules, declarations of interest, and approval of previous minutes. He announced a change to a schools forum appointment due to a new cabinet member. Virdee introduced agenda items, including Short term partners, alternative to temporary accommodation, and facilitated discussions on topics such as electric vehicle charger procurement, cycle hangers, and the Building Affirmative Performance Report. Additionally, he was appointed as a Member of the Local Government Association General Assembly and as a Deputy Member of the London Council Transport and Environment Committee.

Meetings in July 2024

Council - Monday 22nd July 2024 7.00 p.m. - 22 July 2024

Amar Virdee was present at the Council meeting on July 22, 2024. Councillor Neil-Wilson indicated that Councillor Virdee was sitting with him to demonstrate a unified, 'one-council' approach to the issue being discussed, which concerned vandalism and hate crimes.

Cabinet - Tuesday 16th July 2024 10.30 a.m. - 16 July 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee, in his capacity as Deputy Mayor & Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Housing Need, Homelessness & Private Rented Sector, commenced the Cabinet meeting by welcoming attendees and acknowledging a recent tragedy in East Ham involving a house fire that claimed the lives of three children. He proposed a minute of silence in their memory and for the bereaved family, also mentioning upcoming funerals for a former councillor and Tony Wilson's mother.

He then outlined the meeting's housekeeping rules, including procedures for remote participation and introductions. After noting declarations of interest and formally approving the minutes of the previous meeting, he announced a change to an appointment for the schools forum due to a new cabinet member.

Virdee introduced the first agenda item, Short term partners, alternative to temporary accommodation, and invited Councillor Shabam Muhammad to present. He also facilitated discussions and responded to questions concerning the procurement of electric vehicle chargers and cycle hangers, as well as the Building Affirmative Performance Report.

In addition to his procedural and substantive contributions, Amar Virdee was appointed as a Member of the Local Government Association General Assembly and as a Deputy Member of the London Council Transport and Environment Committee.

During the June 4th Cabinet meeting, Amar Virdee was appointed to the Local Government Association General Assembly. He was actively involved in discussions surrounding the Right Care, Right Person initiative, clarifying its origins and the ongoing partner processes. Virdee specifically addressed the application of this initiative to children and young people, noting variations in its explicit implementation across different regions and emphasizing its implicit importance in policy for their protection and mental health. He highlighted that children and young people are a crucial focus for triage work with new sites and camp services, and that he and Councillor Masters will be reviewing this aspect.

Meetings in June 2024

SACRE - Wednesday 19th June 2024 6.30 p.m. - 19 June 2024

Councillor Amar Virdee is listed as a member of the LEA panel for SACRE. However, the available documentation does not indicate that he spoke or took any specific action during the meeting.

Cabinet - Tuesday 4th June 2024 10.30 a.m. - 4 June 2024

Amar Virdee was appointed to the Local Government Association General Assembly. He participated in discussions regarding the Right Care, Right Person initiative, noting that the decision was made by the Commissioner of Sir Mark Rowley in 2003 and that partners are still going through a process regarding decisions made in their free time. Virdee also engaged in a discussion about the application of this approach to children and young people, highlighting that while Humberside specifically picked out children as a separate case where police would deploy, this is not explicitly done by the Met in London, though it is implied. He mentioned the existence of facilities for children with mental health units and stressed the importance of this being implicit, if not explicit, in policy areas concerning the protection and mental health of young people. He further stated that children and young people are a key consideration for triage work with new sites and camp services, and that he and Councillor Masters will be looking into this as part of a review process.

Amar Virdee attended the Council meeting on May 23, 2024. However, there is no record of him speaking or taking any specific action during the meeting.

Meetings in May 2024

Annual Meeting, Council - Thursday 23rd May 2024 7.00 p.m. - 23 May 2024

Amar Virdee was present at the Council meeting held on May 23, 2024. However, the available documents do not indicate that he spoke or took any specific action during the meeting.