Agenda, decisions and minutes
Venue: The Council Chamber, 1st Floor, Town Hall, Mulberry Place, 5 Clove Crescent, London, E14 2BG
Contact: John S Williams, Service Head, Democratic Services Tel: 020 7364 4204, E-mail: johns.williams@towerhamlets.gov.uk
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APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE To receive any apologies for absence. Decision: Apologies for absence were received on behalf of Councillors Shelina Aktar, Mohammed Abdul Mukit, MBE and Anna Lynch.
Minutes: Apologies for absence were received on behalf of Councillors Shelina Aktar, Anna Lynch and Mohammed Abdul Mukit, MBE.
RESOLVED
That the apologies for absence be noted. |
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DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST To note any declarations of interest made by Members, including those restricting Members from voting on the questions detailed in Section 106 of the Local Government Finance Act, 1992. See attached note from the Chief Executive.
Decision: Please see minutes.
Minutes:
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To confirm as a correct record of the proceedings the unrestricted minutes of the meeting of the Council held on 29th November 2011. Decision: Councillor Joshua Peck referred to agenda item 5.2, Page 10 of the minutes and stated that it was necessary to delete the sentence: “The decision to sell the site was taken by the previous administration” as in his view this comment had not been made at the meeting.
Councillor Peter Golds referred to item 5.1 on Page 9 of the minutes and stated that the petitioners did not receive a written reply within 28 days as indicated.
DECISION
That subject to the amendment of item 5.2 as above, the minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Council meeting held on 29th November 2011 be confirmed as a correct record and the Speaker be authorised to sign them accordingly.
(Action by: John S. Williams, Service Head, Democratic Services) (Stephen Halsey, Corporate Director, Communities, Localities & Culture)
Minutes: Councillor Joshua Peck referred to agenda item 5.2, Page 10 of the minutes and stated that it was necessary to delete the sentence: “The decision to sell the site was taken by the previous administration” as in his view this comment had not been made at the meeting.
Councillor Peter Golds referred to item 5.1 on Page 9 of the minutes and stated that the petitioners did not receive a written reply within 28 days as indicated.
RESOLVED
That subject to the amendment of item 5.2 as above, the minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Council held on 29th November 2011 be confirmed as a correct record and the Speaker be authorised to sign them accordingly.
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TO RECEIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS (IF ANY) FROM THE SPEAKER OF COUNCIL OR THE INTERIM CHIEF EXECUTIVE Decision: No announcements were made at the meeting.
Minutes: No announcements were made at the meeting.
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TO RECEIVE PETITIONS The deadline for receipt of petitions to be presented to this meeting is noon on Thursday 19th January 2012.
However, at the time of agenda despatch the maximum number of three petitions had already been received as set out in the attached report. Decision: 5.1 Petition from Wapping Allotments Association:
Ms Amanda Day and a colleague addressed the meeting on behalf of the petitioners and responded to questions from Members.
Councillor Alibor Choudhury, Cabinet Member for Resources, then responded to the issues raised. Legal restrictions and controls had been put in place when the land had been given to the Council. Nevertheless, Councillor Choudhury was keen to assist the Association and would be happy to meet to discuss the matter further.
DECISION
That the petition be referred to the Interim Corporate Director, Development and Renewal for a written response on any outstanding matters within 28 days.
(Action by: Jackie Odunoye, Interim Corporate Director, Development and Renewal)
5.2 Petition regarding environmental proposals for the canal side, Ocean Estate:
Ms Brenda Daley and Mr Derek England addressed the meeting on behalf of the petitioners and responded to questions from Members.
Councillor Rabina Khan, Cabinet Member for Housing, then responded to the issues raised. She indicated that she had spoken to Officers and all flats that had a shed would be allocated a replacement. She undertook to work with the petitioners and stated that full consultation would take place with residents on the matter of proposals for garages and sheds for the affected blocks.
DECISION
That the petition be referred to the Interim Corporate Director, Development and Renewal, for a written response on any outstanding matters within 28 days.
(Action by: Jackie Odunoye, Interim Corporate Director, Development and Renewal)
5.3 Petition regarding antisocial behaviour in the area of Vallance Road:
Mr Donald Martin and Ms Hannah McHalick addressed the meeting on behalf of the petitioners and responded to questions from Members.
Councillor Ohid Ahmed, Deputy Mayor, then responded to the issues raised. He stated that he was fully aware of problems in the area and had been working with the Police and other agencies to effect a solution. The Police had already taken action and the Weavers Fields gates were being locked at night and patrols increased by the Police and THEOs. He indicated that he would be seeking further meetings between Officers and residents to determine further action.
DECISION
That the petition be referred to the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture for a written response on any outstanding matters within 28 days.
(Action by: Stephen Halsey, Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture)
Minutes: 5.1 Petition from Wapping Allotments Association:
Ms Amanda Day and a colleague addressed the meeting on behalf of the petitioners and responded to questions from Members.
Councillor Alibor Choudhury, Cabinet Member for Resources, then responded to the issues raised. Legal restrictions and controls had been put in place when the land had been given to the Council. Nevertheless, Councillor Choudhury was keen to assist the Association and would be happy to meet to discuss the matter further.
RESOLVED
That the petition be referred to the Interim Corporate Director, Development and Renewal, for a written response on any outstanding matters within 28 days.
5.2 Petition regarding environmental proposals for the canal side, Ocean Estate:
Ms Brenda Daley and Mr Derek England addressed the meeting on behalf of the petitioners and responded to questions from Members.
Councillor Rabina Khan, Cabinet Member for Housing, then responded to the issues raised. She indicated that she had spoken to Officers and all flats that had a shed would be allocated a replacement. She undertook to work with the petitioners and stated that full consultation would take place with residents on the matter of proposals for garages and sheds for the affected blocks.
RESOLVED
That the petition be referred to the Interim Corporate Director, Development and Renewal, for a written response on any outstanding matters within 28 days.
5.3 Petition regarding antisocial behaviour in the area of Vallance Road:
Mr Donald Martin and Ms Hannah McHalick addressed the meeting on behalf of the petitioners and responded to questions from Members.
Councillor Ohid Ahmed, Deputy Mayor, then responded to the issues raised. He stated that he was fully aware of problems in the area and had been working with the Police and other agencies to effect a solution. The Police had already taken action and the Weavers Fields gates were being locked at night and patrols increased by the Police and THEOs. He indicated that he would be seeking further meetings between Officers and residents to determine further action.
RESOLVED
That the petition be referred to the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture for a written response on any outstanding matters within 28 days.
Change to Order of Business
At this point, Councillor Alibor Choudhury MOVED, and Councillor Rania Khan SECONDED, a procedural motion – “That under Procedure Rule 14.1.3 the order of business be varied to allow motion 12.14 to be considered as next business.”
The procedural motion was put to the vote and was agreed.
12.14 Sexual Exploitation
CouncillorRania Khan MOVED, and Councillor Ohid Ahmed SECONDED, the motion as printed in the report.
After debate, Councillor Rachael Saunders MOVED, and Councillor Alibor Choudhury SECONDED, a procedural motion – “That under Procedure Rule 14.1.10 the question be now put.” The Procedural Motion was put to the vote and was agreed.
The motion as printed in the agenda was then put to the vote and was agreed with no Member voting against. Accordingly it was:- ... view the full minutes text for item 5. |
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TO RECEIVE WRITTEN QUESTIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC The questions which have been received from members of the public to be put at this meeting are set out in the attached report.
A maximum period of 20 minutes is allocated to this agenda item. Decision: 6.1 Question from Miss Sultana Begum re: the Conservative Mayor Boris Johnson’s recent rises in London Transport Fares
6.2 Question from Mr Len Aldis re: the sponsorship of the Olympic Games by Dow Chemical
6.3 Question from Ms Catherine Tuitt re: the Stephen Lawrence case convictions and monitoring and eradicating racial and hate crime
6.4 Question from Ms Syeda Nasima re: meeting demand for Bengali language teaching in Borough mainstream primary schools (no supplementary question was asked)
The above questions and except where indicated, oral supplementary questions, were put and were responded to by the Mayor or relevant Cabinet Member.
(Action by: John Williams, Service Head, Democratic Services)
Minutes: 6.1 Question from Miss Sultana Begum:
What does the Mayor think about the Conservative Mayor Boris Johnson’s recent rises in London transport fares?
Response by Councillor Shahed Ali, Cabinet Member for Environment
Ken Livingstone as part of his draft manifesto for Mayor of London has announced on his ‘Ken for London’ website that… he will cut fares by 5% in the process and saving the average London transport user over £800 over 4 years.
A key part of the ‘One Tower Hamlets’ Community Plan is to tackle poverty and protect the environment and people’s health.
Increases in public transport fares can adversely impact on social inclusion and people’s economic wellbeing, particularly for poorer sections of the community.
Tower Hamlets Council’s Transport Planning Strategy (2011-2031), using data from Transport for London, indicates that public transport trips account for 37% of total trips in the borough with 21% of all trips by car, 15% by bus, 40% by walking and 2% by cycling.
Therefore, many residents of the borough rely on public transport, for example, to get to work, shopping, visit family and friends.
Increases in bus, tube, train and DLR fares can also encourage more people to go by car rather than travel in healthier, greener ways to the detriment of the quality of life for all in Tower Hamlets and the rest of London.
The recent increases in fares in London will impact on residents by making public transport less affordable and potentially reducing the attractiveness of bus, tube, DLR and rail services as a greener form of travel for local people.
As Tower Hamlets is ranked as the third most deprived local authority area in the country, after Hackney and Newham, any increases in public transport fares will significantly impact on people going to work and making other important journeys, particularly those having to live on the minimum wage or welfare benefits.
Summary of supplementary question from Miss Sultana Begum
Does the Lead Member have a view on Boris Johnson’s argument that Ken Livingstone’s proposal to use excess TfL revenue to reduce public transport fares is not realistic?
Summary of Councillor Shahed Ali’s response to the supplementary question
I will need to look at this in detail before making full comments but would make the point that, since Ken Livingstone left as Mayor of London, the cost of a single bus journey has gone from 90p to £1.35.
Change to Order of Business
At this point, Councillor Alibor Choudhury MOVED and Councillor Ohid Ahmed SECONDED, a procedural motion – “That under Procedure Rule 14.1.3 the order of business be varied to allow motions 12.1 and 12.9 to be considered as next business.”
The procedural motion was put to the vote and was agreed.
12.1 Public transport and unaffordable fares
Councillor Fozol Miah MOVED and Councillor Harun Miah SECONDED, the motion as printed in the agenda.
Councillor Peter Golds MOVED, and Councillor Tim Archer SECONDED, a tabled amendment to the motion as follows:-
“Delete ... view the full minutes text for item 6. |
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MAYOR'S REPORT In accordance with the Council’s Constitution as amended, provision is made at each ordinary Council meeting for the Elected Mayor to give a report.
A maximum of five minutes is allowed for the Elected Mayor’s report, following which the Speaker of Council will give the respective political group leaders an opportunity to respond for up to one minute each if they wish. Decision: The Mayor made his report to the Council meeting. The Leader of the Majority Group and Leaders of the Minority Groups each responded briefly to the Mayor’s report.
Minutes: The Mayor made his report to the Council meeting, referring firstly to the recent Child Poverty Action report which showed that 52% of children in the Borough lived below the poverty line. The Mayor stated that this must be reduced as a priority issue and that previous reductions in poverty that had been enabled under a Labour Government were under threat because of cuts made by the Conservative-led administration.
The Mayor considered that a further main priority area must be to protect residents of the Borough from the austerity cuts, to promote jobs and education maximise entry into apprenticeships. He added that 868 Olympics jobs had been secured for local people and his administration was working to achieve more.
The Mayor pointed out that, since the last Council meeting, two of the killers of Stephen Lawrence had been convicted and he was pleased to support the related motion on the agenda. He commended the dignity shown by the Lawrence family over the 18 years since Stephen’s murder.
That period had also seen much work on changing Police interaction with minorities and the Mayor particularly mentioned the new Metropolitan Police Commissioner’s plans in relation to stop and search measures. Much progress had been made on tackling racism but it was still essential to remain vigilant.
The Mayor commented out that the coming month would see the start of the Chinese Year of the Dragon and he added that the Borough had been enriched by the presence of the Chinese community.
The Leader of the Majority Group and Leaders of the Minority Groups each responded briefly to the Mayor’s report.
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TO RECEIVE WRITTEN QUESTIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL The questions which have been received from Councillors to be put at this meeting are set out in the attached report.
A maximum period of 30 minutes is allocated to this agenda item. Decision: 8.1 Question from Councillor Judith Gardiner re: measures against unauthorised subletting and other abuses of the allocation process.
8.2 Question from Councillor Peter Golds re: the Government’s announcement that it will criminalise subletting of socially rented property.
8.3 Question from Councillor Motin Uz-Zaman re: any meetings held with the Minister responsible for benefit changes to highlight the impact of these on Tower Hamlets residents.
8.4 Question from Councillor Fozol Miah re: representations to be made to the new Metropolitan Police Commissioner and Borough Commander concerning the concept of total policing in the light of the Stephen Lawrence murder and subsequent developments.
8.5 Question from Councillor Lesley Pavitt re: complaints about One Stop Shops in the first half of 2011/12.
8.6 Question from Councillor Zara Davis re: the motion previouslt agreed by the Council concerning the use of Sir John McDougal Gardens, Millwall Park and Island Gardens.
8.7 Question from Councillor Shiria Khatun re: measures to increase recycling in the Borough.
8.8 Question from Councillor Maium Miah re: the repayment of a short term loan to the Rich Mix Centre.
8.9 Question from Councillor Helal Uddin re: increases in rents and other charges.
8.10 Question from Councillor David Snowdon re: measures to promote the teaching of history in Tower Hamlets schools.
8.11 Question from Councillor Kosru Uddin re: a revised strategy for THEOs in the event of any future public disturbances.
8.12 Question from Councillor Stephanie Eaton to the Deputy Mayor re: a review of crime prevention measures in view of increase in burglary in Bethnal Green North ward.
8.13 Question from Councillor Carlo Gibbs re: the number of residents’ visits to Rushmead One Stop Shop last year concerning Housing Benefit.
8.14 Question from Councillor Gloria Thienel re: measures to protect war memorials in the Borough from metal theft.
8.15 Question from Councillor Khales Uddin Ahmed re: how many jobs have been taken up by Tower Hamlets residents as a result of the deal with LOCOG.
8.16 Question from Councillor Harun Miah re: any financial implications for Tower Hamlets schools resulting from PFI schemes and measures to address this (no supplementary question was asked).
8.17 Question from Councillor Anna Lynch re: how many meetings the Mayor has had with ministers of the Department of Health in the last six months and the issues discussed (Councillor Lynch was not present to put her question).
8.18 Question from Councillor Craig Aston re: an update on energy efficiency in the Town Hall building.
8.19 Question from Councillor Zenith Rahman re: street cleaning and the possible impact of filthy streets on the bid for City Status (This question was not put at the meeting).
8.20 Question from Councillor Lutfa Begum re: help for overcrowded families who are reluctant to move to Car Free Properties.
8.21 Question from Councillor Tim Archer requesting an update on progress in bringing back the Henry Moore statue to the Borough (no oral supplementary question was asked).
8.22 Question from Councillor Kabir Ahmed re: the impact of his significant ... view the full decision text for item 8. Minutes: The Speaker indicated that the meeting would now move to questions from Councillors.
Councillor Judith Gardiner put the first question on the order paper and the Mayor indicated that Councillor Rabina Khan would respond.
Point of Order
At this point, Councillor Peck stated that in accordance with decisions regarding the Constitution made at the last Council meeting, the Mayor should respond personally to all questions asked, rather than nominating Cabinet members to do so.
Following discussion on the matter, the Speaker at 9.15 p.m. declared the meeting adjourned so that Officers’ advice might be obtained. The meeting reconvened at 9.40 p.m. Ms Isabella Freeman, Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services) advised the Council that, in accordance with the valid amendments to the Constitution made at the last meeting, the Council could require that questions are put to the Mayor and could prevent Cabinet Members from responding on the Mayor’s behalf, although the Mayor could not be obliged to answer questions personally at the meeting.
The Mayor commented that he had appointed to the Cabinet very able and experienced Lead Members to take charge of service provision and who would be involved with him in addressing matters included in their portfolios. He urged Councillors to work with him for the benefit of the wider community. However, if the Council would not agree to Cabinet Members replying to questions in the Chamber, he would publish written answers to Members’ questions at an appropriate time of his choosing.
Procedural Motion
At this point, Councillor Alibor Choudhury MOVED, and Councillor Ohid Ahmed SECONDED, a procedural motion - “That under Procedure Rule 14.1.14, Rule 13.1 be suspended to allow the following urgent motion to be debated:-
“We condemn both the Tory and Labour groups for their time wasting tactics and blatant disregard for the public who have come to listen to Council affairs that affect their lives.”
More than 10 Members rose from their seats to request a recorded vote on the procedural motion in accordance with Procedure Rule 17.4. A recorded vote was therefore taken and Members indicated their votes as follows:-
For the motion (15 Councillors)
Councillor Kabir Ahmed Councillor Ohid Ahmed Councillor Rofique Uddin Ahmed Councillor Shahed Ali Councillor Abdul Asad Councillor Lutfa Begum Councillor Alibor Choudhury Councillor Shafiqul Haque Councillor Aminur Khan Councillor Rabina Khan Councillor Rania Khan Councillor Fozol Miah Councillor Harun Miah Councillor Maium Miah Councillor Oliur Rahman
Against the motion (33 Councillors)
Councillor Joshua Peck Councillor Peter Golds Councillor Helal Abbas Councillor Khales Uddin Ahmed Councillor Rajib Ahmed Councillor Timothy Archer Councillor Craig Aston Councillor Zara Davis Councillor Stephanie Eaton Councillor David Edgar Councillor Marc Francis Councillor Judith Gardiner Councillor Carlo Gibbs Councillor Carli Harper-Penman Councillor Sirajul Islam Councillor Ann Jackson Councillor Denise Jones Councillor Dr Emma Jones Councillor Anwar Khan Councillor Shiria Khatun Councillor Ahmed Omer Councillor Lesley Pavitt Councillor Zenith Rahman Councillor Rachael Saunders Councillor David Snowdon Councillor Gloria Thienel Councillor Bill Turner Councillor Helal Uddin Councillor Kosru Uddin Councillor Abdal Ullah Councillor Motin ... view the full minutes text for item 8. |
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REPORTS FROM THE EXECUTIVE AND THE COUNCIL'S COMMITTEES |
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Substance Misuse Strategy To adopt the Substance Misuse Strategy which sets out the Tower Hamlets Partnership approach to tackling the problems associated with drug and alcohol misuse in the borough, in accordance with the Council’s obligation under section 6 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.
The Substance Misuse Strategy forms a part of the Council’s Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy. This is one of the plans and strategies that together make up the authority’s Policy Framework and the adoption of which must be agreed by the full Council.
The proposals of the Executive for the Council’s Substance Misuse Strategy are set out in the attached report. Additional documents:
Decision: Councillor Ohid Ahmed moved, and Councillor Kabir Ahmed seconded, the recommendations as printed in the report of the Cabinet meeting of 7th December 2011.
Following debate the motion was put to the vote and was agreed.
DECISION
That the Substance Misuse Strategy be adopted as set out at Appendix 1 to the report of the Cabinet (CAB 054/112) and included at pages 71 to 156 of the Council agenda.
(Action by: Stephen Halsey, Corporate Director, Communities, Leisure and Culture and Rachael Sadbergh, Interim DAAT Co-ordinator)
Minutes: The Council considered the report of the Cabinet at its meeting dated 7th December 2011, incorporating the report of the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture, proposing the adoption of a Borough-wide Substance Misuse Strategy.
Councillor Ohid Ahmed MOVED and Councillor Kabir Ahmed SECONDED the recommendations as contained in the report.
After debate Councillor Motin Uz-Zaman MOVED and Councillor Joshua Peck SECONDED, a procedural motion – “That under Procedural Rule 14.1 the question be now put.” The procedural motion was put to the vote and was agreed.
The report recommendations were then put to the vote and were agreed with no Member voting against. Accordingly, it was:-
RESOLVED
That the Substance Misuse Strategy be adopted as set out at Appendix 1 to the report of the Cabinet (CAB 054/112) and included at pages 71 to 156 of the Council agenda.
Procedural Motion
At this point, Councillor Alibor Choudhury MOVED and Councillor Ohid Ahmed SECONDED, a procedural motion – “That under Procedural Rule 14.1.3 the order of business be varied to allow item 11.1 on this agenda to be considered as the next business.”
The procedural motion was put to the vote and was defeated.
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To agree the date on which section 16 of the London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2003 will come into operation in Tower Hamlets. Under this section of the 2003 Act, enhanced enforcement powers are available to the Council as Highway Authority, concerning vehicles driving over the footway.
The recommendations of the Cabinet Meeting on 11th January 2012 on this matter are set out in the attached report. Additional documents: Decision: Councillor Shahed Ali moved, and Councillor Shafiqul Haque seconded, the recommendations as printed in the report of the Cabinet meeting of 11th January 2012.
Following debate the motion was put to the vote and was agreed.
DECISION
That it be determined that Section 16 of the London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2003 will come into operation in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets on 1st May 2012.
(Action by: Stephen Halsey, Corporate Director, Communities, Leaisure and Culture and Azizul Goni, Special Projects Officer)
Minutes: The Council considered the Cabinet report dated 11th January 2012, incorporating the report of the Corporate Director, Communities, Localities and Culture, in relation to Section 16 of the London Local Authorities Act 2003, concerning vehicles driving over the footway.
Councillor Shahed Ali MOVED and Councillor Shafiqul Haque SECONDED, the recommendations as contained in the report.
After debate, Councillor Motin Uz-Zaman MOVED and Councillor Joshua Peck SECONDED, a procedural motion – “That under Procedural Rule 14.1.10 the question be now put.”
The procedural motion was then put to the vote and was agreed.
The report recommendations were then put to the vote and were agreed with no Member voting against. Accordingly, it was:-
RESOLVED
That it be determined that Section 16 of the London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2003 will come into operation in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets on 1st May 2012.
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The General Purposes Committee on 17th January 2012 will consider a number of proposed amendments to be Council’s Constitution as set out in the attached report.
The recommendations of the General Purposes Committee in relation to the matters in the report will be circulated to Members before the Council meeting. Additional documents: Decision: Councillor Shiria Khatun moved, and Councillor Joshua Peck seconded, the recommendations of the General Purposes Committee as set out in the report of the committee circulated to Councillors in the supplementary agenda pack.
In seconding the motion, Councillor Joshua Peck moved a tabled amendment as follows:-
“Delete points 11.5 and 11.6 and insert:-
‘This Council instructs the Interim Chief Executive to make arrangements for a working group comprising a representative of the Executive, the majority and the other political groupings, senior officers and an independent adviser to consider the budget making and virement arrangements of the Council and make recommendations to a meeting of the next non-budget Full Council through the appropriate channel’.”
Councillor David Edgar seconded the amendment moved by Councillor Peck.
Following debate the amendment moved by Councillor Peck was put to the vote and was agreed.
Councillor Craig Aston moved, and Councillor David Snowdon seconded, a further tabled amendment as follows:-
“1. That the proposed amendment to Council Procedure Rule 17.4 at part 4.1 of the Constitution be deleted.
2. To delete the word ‘ten’ in Council Procedure Rule 17.4 at part 4.1 of the Constitution and substitute the word ‘six’.
3. To amend Council Procedure Rule 17.4 at part 4.1 of the Constitution to add at the end:
‘No recorded vote may be called on motions under Council Procedure Rules 14.1.10, 15.11.4 and 15.12.1 (that is, motions that the question be now put)’.”
Following debate the amendment moved by Councillor Aston was put to the vote and was defeated.
The substantive motion as amended was then put to the vote and was agreed.
DECISION
1. That the deadline for amendments for the Budget Council meeting be brought forward to 9.15 a.m. on the working day before the budget meeting and the amendments be circulated to the Mayor and all Councillors, with any officer comments that are available, at least 24 hours before the meeting.
2. That the Budget Council Procedure Rules at paragraph 4.2 of Part 4.1 of the Constitution be amended as follows in relation to the first Budget Council meeting:
(a) Other than amendments notified in advance as above, no further substantial amendment may normally be moved at the budget meeting but the Council may, subject to the advice of the Monitoring Officer, Section 151 Officer and Head of Paid Service, agree that an amendment without notice can be debated.
(b) The Speaker will remind the Council at the start of the meeting of the importance where possible of all amendments being moved at the beginning of the debate or as soon as the need for the amendment is identified; and before moving to the ‘right of reply’ and voting stage of the meeting will give a final invitation for any further amendments. No new amendment may be proposed once the call for the vote has commenced.
(c) At the first Budget Council meeting, if a new amendment is moved during the final 30 minutes of the time allocated for the meeting, ... view the full decision text for item 9.3 Minutes: The Council considered the report of the Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services) proposing amendments to the Council’s Constitution as recommended by the General Purposes Committee at its meeting held on 17th January 2012. The report, which was circulated with the supplementary agenda, superceded that which had been included in the original agenda papers.
The Council noted that the supplementary report had not been circulated with the Council agenda in accordance with the timescales set out in the Authority’s constitution because the meeting of the General Purposes Committee reported therein took place after the agenda was sent to print. The report was nevertheless recommended for consideration at this meeting because the constitutional matters set out in the report required urgent resolution to enable the implementation of the decisions previously made by the Council and, in relation to the Budget Council procedures, to ensure these were in place before the Budget Council Meeting 2012.
The report was introduced by Mr John S. Williams, Service Head, Democratic Services and appropriate advice was provided by Ms Isabella Freeman, Assistant Chief Executive (Legal Services), in particular drawing the Council’s attention to the statutory officers’ comments on the proposals regarding (i) recorded votes and (ii) virements.
Councillor Shiria Khatun MOVED and Councillor Joshua Peck SECONDED the recommendations of the General Purposes Committee as set out in the report circulated with the supplementary agenda.
In seconding the motion, Councillor Peck MOVED a tabled amendment as follows:-
“Delete points 11.5 and 11.6 and insert:-
‘This Council instructs the Interim Chief Executive to make arrangements for a working group comprising a representative of the Executive, the majority and the other political groupings, senior officers and an independent adviser to consider the budget making and virement arrangements of the Council and make recommendations to a meeting of the next non-budget Full Council through the appropriate channel’.”
Councillor David Edgar SECONDED the amendment moved by Councillor Peck.
Councillor Craig Aston MOVED, and Councillor David Snowdon SECONDED, a further tabled amendment as follows:-
“1. That the proposed amendment to Council Procedure Rule 17.4 at part 4.1 of the Constitution be deleted.
2. To delete the word ‘ten’ in Council Procedure Rule 17.4 at part 4.1 of the Constitution and substitute the word ‘six’.
3. To amend Council Procedure Rule 17.4 at part 4.1 of the Constitution to add at the end:
‘No recorded vote may be called on motions under Council Procedure Rules 14.1.10, 15.11.4 and 15.12.1 (that is, motions that the question be now put)’.”
Extension of time limit for the meeting
Councillor David Snowdon MOVED and Councillor Zara Davis SECONDED, a procedural motion – “That under Procedure Rule 15.11.7 the meeting be extended until completion of the current agenda item.” The procedural motion was put to the vote and was agreed.
Procedural Motion
Following debate, Councillor Motin Uz-Zaman MOVED and Councillor Bill Turner SECONDED, a procedural motion – “That under Procedure Rule 14.1.10 the question be now put.” The ... view the full minutes text for item 9.3 |
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Recruitment of Chief Executive - update Report of the Human Resources Committee (18th January 2012) to follow. Decision: The Council received the report of the Human Resources Committee of 18th January 2012 as circulated to Councillors in the supplementary agenda pack.
The Council voted on this matter under the guillotine procedure as set out at Council Procedure Rule 9.2, the time limit for the meeting having been reached.
DECISION
1. That the update on progress and the revised timetable for the recruitment to the post of Chief Executive ne noted.
2. That in view of the revised timetable, the appointment of Aman Dalvi, Corporate Director, Development and Renewal, as Interim Chief Executive (Head of the Paid Service) be extended until the Annual Council Meeting in May 2012.
(Action by: Isabella Freeman, Assistant Chief Executive [Legal Services] and Simon Kilbey, Human Resources and Workforce Development) Minutes: The Council received the report of the Human Resources Committee dated 18th January 2012, concerning the progress made in the recruitment to the post of Chief Executive and proposing the extension of the current interim appointment pending completion of that process.
The report had not been circulated with the Council agenda in accordance with the timescales set out in the Authority’s constitution because the meeting of the Human Resources Committee reported therein took place after the agenda was despatched. The report was nevertheless considered at the meeting in order to ensure that there was no delay to the recruitment process for the post of Chief Executive and to ensure continuity of the interim appointment.
RESOLVED
1. That the update on progress and the revised timetable for the recruitment to the post of Chief Executive be noted.
2. That in view of the revised timetable, the appointment of Aman Dalvi, Corporate Director, Development and Renewal, as Interim Chief Executive (Head of the Paid Service) be extended until the Annual Council Meeting in May 2012.
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TO RECEIVE REPORTS AND QUESTIONS ON JOINT ARRANGEMENTS AND EXTERNAL ORGANISATIONS (if any) There is no business to conduct under this agenda item. Decision: There was no business under this heading.
Minutes: There was no business under this heading.
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To adopt the three strategy documents that the Council is required by the CLG/CIPFA Code of Practice to produce in connection with its treasury management arrangements. The report of the Corporate Director, Resources is attached. Decision: The Council received the report of the Corporate Director, Resources as circulated to Councillors with the agenda pack.
The Council voted on this matter under the guillotine procedure as set out at Council Procedure Rule 9.2, the time limit for the meeting having been reached.
DECISION
1. That the Treasury Management Strategy Statement be adopted as set out in sections 6-10 of Appendix 1 to the report of the Corporate Director, Resources.
2. That the Revised Annual Investment Strategy be adopted as set out in section 11 of Appendix 1 to the report of the Corporate Director, Resources.
3. That the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy Statement be adopted as set out in section 12 of Appendix 1 to the report of the Corporate Director, Resources.
(Action by: Chris Naylor, Corporate Director, Resources and Oladapo Shonola, Chief Financial Officer, Strategy)
Minutes: The Council received the report of the Corporate Director, Resources proposing the adoption of the Treasury Management Strategy Statement; Revised Annual Investment Strategy and Minimum Revenue Provision Policy Statement.
RESOLVED
1. That the Treasury Management Strategy Statement be adopted as set out in sections 6-10 of Appendix 1 to the report of the Corporate Director, Resources.
2. That the Revised Annual Investment Strategy be adopted as set out in section 11 of Appendix 1 to the report of the Corporate Director, Resources.
3. That the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy Statement be adopted as set out in section 12 of Appendix 1 to the report of the Corporate Director, Resources.
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TO CONSIDER MOTIONS SUBMITTED BY MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL The motions submitted by Councillors for debate at this meeting are set out in the attached report. Decision: 12.1 Public transport and unaffordable fares
Councillor Fozol Miah moved and Councillor Harun Miah seconded, the motion as printed in the agenda.
Councillor Peter Golds moved, and Councillor Tim Archer seconded, a tabled amendment to the motion.
Following debate the amendment moved by Councillor Golds was put to the vote and was defeated.
The substantive motion as printed in the agenda was then put to the vote and was agreed.
DECISION
This Council notes that:
1) the importance of encouraging use of public transport to limit pollution in London and to save on use of fossil fuels which increase global warming
2) people on lower incomes are particularly dependent on public transport to ensure they can gain access for themselves and their families of the benefits of living in London
3) many people have seen or are seeing no rise in their incomes despite the fact inflation is over 5% and this is cutting their living standards
4) Tory Mayor of London Boris Johnson is committed to raising fares on public transport in London year on year by 1% above inflation, despite falling living standards for many, particularly on lower incomes across the capital and in Tower Hamlets in particular
5) Ken Livingstone, the only candidate who realistically can be expected to replace the Tory mayor Boris Johnson in elections in May 2012, has promised to reduce fares by 5% if elected with no increase in fares in 2013
This Council believes that:
1) the rise in fares proposed by the Tory Mayor Boris Johnson will have a severe effect on the living standards in London particularly of those on lower incomes
2) the rise in fares proposed by Tory Mayor Boris Johnson will discourage use of public transport
3) a reduction in fares rather than an increase is both affordable and desirable
This Council supports the plans announced by Ken Livingstone to reduce fares if elected next May.
12.9 Support Ken Livingstone’s fair deal for transport
CouncillorRabina Khan moved, and Councillor Safiqul Haque seconded, the motion as printed in the agenda.
Councillor Peter Golds moved, and Councillor Tim Archer seconded, a tabled amendment to the motion.
Following debate, the amendment moved by Councillor Golds was put to the vote and was defeated.
The substantive motion as printed in the agenda was then put to the vote and was agreed.
DECISION
This Council notes:
1. That from January 2012 there has been a steep rise in bus, tube and rail fares under Tory Mayor Boris Johnson
2. That under the Tory mayor the cost of a single bus ticket has risen by a massive 50 per cent since 2008, whilst the price of a monthly zone 1-2 Travelcard is up 21% costing £230.40 per year more, and the price of zones 1-6 Travelcard is up a fifth.
3. That a key part of the "One Tower Hamlets" Community Plan is to tackle poverty and protect the environment and peoples' health.
4. That increases in public transport fares can adversely ... view the full decision text for item 12. Minutes: Motions 12.1, 12.9, 12.11, 12.13 and 12.14 had been debated earlier in the meeting.
Motions 12.2; 12.3; 12.4; 12.5; 12.6; 12.7; 12.8; 12.10; 12.12; 12.15; 12.16 and 12.17 were not considered due to the time limit being reached. Tabled amendments to motions 12.4; 12.5; 12.6; 12.10 and 12.12 were not moved, accordingly.
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