The Court of Common Council met on Thursday, 9 January 2025, to discuss a range of matters including the regularisation of Ward Beadle elections, a review of the Procurement Code, and the implementation of a Circular Economy Framework. Key decisions included the approval of a Bill to revert Ward Beadle elections to an annual cycle, the development of a new Procurement Policy, and the adoption of the Circular Economy Framework.

Bill for an Act of Common Council – Annual Election of Ward Beadles

The Court considered a Bill for an Act of Common Council to regularise the arrangements for the election of Ward Beadles. This Bill aims to address issues arising from the overlap between Aldermanic and Beadle terms of office, which have become more pronounced since the change from annual to four-year terms for Ward Beadles. The proposal is to revert to the long-standing practice of annual elections for Ward Beadles. This change, if approved, will take effect from March 2025. The Bill was presented for its third and final reading, having previously been read and approved in principle at the December 2024 meeting.

Finance Committee: Procurement Code Review

The Finance Committee presented proposals for a review of the City of London Corporation's Procurement Code. The Code requires updating to align with the upcoming implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 and Procurement Regulations 2024. The committee recommended the development of a new Procurement Policy and supporting framework to replace the existing Code. To facilitate the transition, officers proposed authorising the Chamberlain to approve necessary changes to the current Code and an increase in the threshold for procurement approvals to £20 million until July 2025. This temporary increase aims to streamline the approval process while the new policy is developed.

Port Health and Environmental Services Committee: Circular Economy Framework

The Port Health and Environmental Services Committee recommended the approval and implementation of a Circular Economy Framework and its associated Action Plan. This initiative aligns with the City of London Corporation's Corporate Plan 2024-29 and its Net Zero targets. The framework aims to keep materials in circulation, avoid waste, and position the City Corporation as a leader in circular economy practices, with the goal of making the Square Mile a circular city by 2040. The framework focuses on both the City Corporation's own operations and its influence on the wider Square Mile.

Finance Committee: Extension of Contract for the Pan-London Sexual Health E-Services Contract

The Finance Committee recommended a 12-month extension to the Pan-London Sexual Health E-Services contract with Preventx Ltd. This contract provides open access sexual health services across London. The City of London Corporation acts as the Lead Authority and accountable body for this service, collaborating with 30 other London local authorities. The extension is necessary to allow sufficient time for the re-procurement of a new contract. The City Corporation's cost for this extension will be £40,000 out of a total extension cost of £27 million.

The Freedom of the City

The Court considered a circulated list of applications for the Freedom of the City by Redemption. This is a formal process where individuals are admitted to the Freedom of the City upon application and payment of a fee. The list details each applicant, their profession, and the names of those nominating them.

Legislation

The Court received a report detailing measures introduced into Parliament that may affect the work and services provided by the City Corporation. This included updates on Statutory Instruments concerning the recognition of professional qualifications with Switzerland, and the appointment of inspectors for education, children's services, and skills.

Policy and Resources Committee: Report of Urgent Action Taken: Standing Order 64 (Disciplinary Action)

The Court noted action taken under urgency procedures concerning Standing Order 64, which outlines the procedure for Members to raise complaints about Statutory Officers. Amendments were made to clarify the assessment stage of the complaint process and to update a reference to the Statutory Officer Review Panel . These changes were deemed necessary to ensure compliance with regulations and to maintain the integrity of the disciplinary process.