Major Power Shift for London's Mayor
The Government has announced plans to give Sadiq Khan and other regional mayors across England substantial new authority in what's being described as the biggest transfer of power out of Whitehall in decades. Devolution Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh confirmed that the proposed English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill would provide mayors with enhanced control over key areas including planning, housing, transport and regeneration.
Transforming London's Night-Time Economy
Under the new legislation, the Mayor of London would become a statutory consultee for licensing applications affecting pubs, bars and nightclubs. This would allow him to publish a strategic licensing policy specifically for venues within London's night-time economy, which local licensing authorities would be required to consider when making decisions.
Ms Fahnbulleh told MPs that London's hospitality businesses have been held back by a licensing regime lacking proportionality, consistency and transparency. She emphasised that the capital's pubs and restaurants are the beating hearts of cultural life and contribute significantly to London's world-class status and economic growth.
The amendments, which will be piloted in London first, aim to create conditions where the night-time economy can thrive by giving hospitality businesses greater confidence through a more streamlined approach.
Tourist Tax Debate and Wider Powers
The debate also saw renewed calls for mayors to be granted powers to implement tourist taxes. Liberal Democrat MP Wera Hobhouse argued that a modest visitor levy on overnight stays could generate a ringfenced revenue stream beneficial to the hospitality sector.
However, Ms Fahnbulleh clarified that decisions about tourist taxes fall within the remit of Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who will unveil her Budget on Wednesday. The minister acknowledged that mayors across the country have been strong advocates for such levies.
Conservative shadow minister Paul Holmes criticised the proposed changes, arguing that the Bill introduces complexity when the public wants simplicity and clear lines of responsibility. He expressed concern about creating an ever-changing maze of institutions that could confuse residents about who is responsible for key services.
The legislation would also grant mayors power to set strategy for key road routes in their areas and establish new development corporations to support building work and regeneration plans.
