The annual meeting of Tower Hamlets Council saw the election of a new Speaker and Deputy Speaker, and a significant debate regarding proposed changes to members' allowances. The meeting also included a comprehensive State of the Borough address by Mayor John Biggs, outlining the council's achievements, challenges, and future direction.

Election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker

Councillor Khali Suddin-Ahmed was elected as the new Speaker of Tower Hamlets Council for the 2016-2017 year. Councillor Sabina Akhtar was elected as the Deputy Speaker for the same period.

State of the Borough Address

Mayor John Biggs delivered his first State of the Borough address, reflecting on the past year, outlining the challenges the council faces, detailing achievements, and setting out the vision for the borough's future. He highlighted the council's progress in rebuilding its reputation, improving transparency, and addressing issues such as housing, street cleaning, crime, and air quality. Mayor Biggs acknowledged the difficult financial climate, stating that the council must find £60 million in savings over three years. He also emphasised the importance of community cohesion and the need to support residents facing rising rents and benefit changes.

Debate on Members' Allowances and Mayoral Advisors

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a heated debate concerning proposed updates to the scheme of member allowances for 2016-17. Mayor John Biggs proposed an increase in allowances, arguing that it was necessary to recognise the sacrifices councillors make and that the proposed figures were within the limits recommended by London Councils. He also clarified that he would not take the entirety of the proposed mayoral allowance if agreed.

This proposal was met with strong opposition from several councillors, who argued that it was inappropriate to increase allowances during a period of significant cuts to public services and a 4% council tax rise for residents. Councillor Shahed Ali criticised the proposal, stating that it was disgusting and that councillors should not be voting for a pay rise for themselves. Councillor Oliur Rahman also voiced strong objections, highlighting the closure of youth clubs and nurseries, and the cuts to services for the vulnerable. He specifically questioned the appointment of three paid mayoral advisors, arguing that the council's constitution did not allow for this and that the council had sufficient experienced officers.

Councillor Peter Golds, while congratulating the Mayor, also raised concerns about the proposed mayoral advisors, stating that the Mayor did not need them and that their appointment was not supported by the independent review board's recommendations. He also pointed out that some councillors had failed to submit timesheets and had low levels of casework.

Mayor Biggs defended the proposals, stating that advisors were a common practice in councils and a good way to train councillors. He also highlighted significant savings made in the Mayor's office and argued that the proposed allowances were reasonable in comparison to other London boroughs and the recommendations of an independent review. He also addressed the issues raised about the Youth Service, explaining that the reduction in in-house provision was due to ongoing investigations into allegations of fraud, corruption, and other serious issues.

Ultimately, an amendment proposed by Councillor Ali Rahman to reject the proposed increases was lost. The main motion to agree the recommendations on members' allowances was carried with 24 votes in favour and 19 against.

Other Business

• Report on the Mayor's Cabinet and Executive Appointments: Mayor John Biggs formally proposed the report, clarifying proposals to create three positions of mayoral advisor.
• Report for Proportionality and the Setting up of Committees: Mayor John Biggs formally moved the proposal. Discussions included clarification on committee membership sizes and the composition of the Health and Wellbeing Board.
• Report Setting Out the Update Calendar of Council and Committee Meetings for 2016-17: This was agreed.
• Report Setting Out Nomination to Committee and Subcommittee to the Council: This was agreed.

The meeting also included a discussion on the State of the Borough debate, with contributions from Councillor Oliur Rahman and Councillor Peter Golds, and a response from Mayor John Biggs.