Today’s Queen’s Speech included an undertaking to bring forward legislation granting greater powers to the Mayor and London Assembly.
The powers, which were announced by Local Government Minister Ruth Kelly in July, include transferring the responsibilities of the London Housing Board to the Mayor along with greater control of planning decisions.
It also expected that the Mayor will gain the power to appoint the Chairs and some board members of the Arts Council London, the London Regional Sports Board and Museums, Libraries and Archives London.
The Assembly will gain the power to set its own budget and be able to hold confirmation hearings for key appointments the Mayor proposes to make.
