Here's a summary of the London Assembly Economy, Culture and Skills Committee meeting on 2 September 2025:

The committee addressed employment support for former prisoners, noting the importance of co-ordinated support and the need to address systemic issues. They also noted responses from the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, regarding Brexit and broadband connectivity, and agreed their upcoming work programme.

Declarations of Interest

The committee noted a report from the Executive Director of Assembly Secretariat listing Assembly Members' disclosable pecuniary interests, including positions held in various London boroughs and organisations, as required by the GLA's code of conduct¹.

Minutes and Actions

The committee approved the minutes from the meetings held on 25 June 2025 and 16 July 2025. They also reviewed a summary of completed and ongoing actions from previous meetings, as well as additional correspondence received, as detailed in the Summary List of Actions.

Responses to Committee Outputs

The committee acknowledged the Mayor of London's responses to their letters regarding:

• The impact of Brexit on London's economy, where the Mayor highlighted the London Growth Plan and ongoing engagement with the government.
• Broadband connectivity in London, where the Mayor noted efforts to improve access to high-speed internet and address digital exclusion.

Employment in London After Prison

The committee continued its investigation into employment support for former prisoners, hearing from invited guests. The committee delegated authority to the Chair, Councillor Hina Bokhari OBE AM, in consultation with party group lead members, to agree on any output arising from the discussion.

The committee heard evidence from Jon Collins, Chief Executive of the Prisoners' Education Trust (PET), Penny Parker, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Standout, Matt Randle, Director of Justice, Catch22, and Sian Williams, CEO, Switchback.

Key discussion points included:

• Challenges Faced by Prison Leavers: Panel members highlighted challenges including accommodation, mental and physical health, financial instability, stigma, and culture shock.
• Preparing for the Labour Market: Jon Collins noted that accessing education and training in prison increases the likelihood of employment upon release, but the quality of education in prisons is generally poor.
• The Role of the Third Sector: Penny Parker described the third sector as the glue holding the system together, delivering people-oriented support. Matt Randle emphasised the importance of the third sector acting as a conduit between statutory services and those leaving prison. Sian Williams spoke about the importance of a trauma-informed approach and the need to address systemic racism.
• The Importance of Mentoring and Coaching: Penny Parker and Sian Williams highlighted the importance of mentoring and coaching in building relationships, providing support, and holding individuals accountable.
• The Role of Employers: Panel members discussed the need to address employer reluctance to hire former prisoners and to provide support and training to employers.
• Systemic Issues: Panel members highlighted the need to address systemic issues such as the lack of coordination between services, the lack of affordable housing, and the need for a more trauma-informed approach.
• Specific Interventions: Sian Williams highlighted the success of The Dusty Knuckle Bakery, a social business that provides employment opportunities for people leaving prison.

Councillor Hina Bokhari OBE AM asked Sian Williams to provide information about any recent reviews following The Lammy Review's findings on disparities in job prospects between Asian and Black ethnic minority individuals.

Committee Work Programme

The committee noted its work programme, including upcoming investigations into whether London is a family-friendly city, unpaid carers in London, the London Growth Plan, and community banks.