Abdul Mannan | Councillor for Bromley North, Tower Hamlets

Councillor Abdul Mannan

Aspire Bromley North

Email: abdul.mannan@towerhamlets.gov.uk

Council Profile: View on council website

Committees: Overview & Scrutiny Committee (Vice-Chair, Member) Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee (Substitute) Council (Member) Development Committee Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee (Member) Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee (Chair)

Positions, Voting Record & Activity Summary

Last updated: 9 days ago

Councillor Abdul Mannan's council service across multiple years reveals a consistent dedication to scrutiny, governance, and community well-being, with a pronounced and evolving focus on the Children & Education portfolio. His recent activity, particularly in 2025, saw him take on significant leadership roles as Scrutiny Lead for Children & Education and Vice-Chair of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee. In this capacity, he actively chaired sub-committee meetings, driving discussions on critical issues such as free school meals, parental engagement, and the integration of bullying into mental health strategies. Mannan demonstrated a meticulous approach to council operations, posing detailed questions on budgets, capital programs, housing affordability, and public safety, consistently advocating for clarity and accountability. He also showed a commitment to inclusivity by suggesting meeting reschedules for cultural observances like Ramadan and Eid.

While his 2024 activities also centered on his role as Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education and Resources, with similar detailed questioning on school planning, mental health, and governance, his 2025 tenure marked a deepening of his leadership and a broader scope of inquiry. His contributions in 2025, such as advocating for specific community group consultations and raising concerns about affordable housing targets, highlight a proactive and engaged approach to council oversight.

In the most recent year, 2026, Mannan's recorded activity is more limited, primarily noting his attendance at a Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting. However, this presence, following his extensive engagement in prior years, suggests a continued, albeit less documented, involvement in council oversight. Overall, Mannan's priorities have consistently revolved around ensuring effective governance and championing the needs of vulnerable communities, with a particularly strong and sustained emphasis on the educational and developmental well-being of children, as evidenced by his leadership and detailed questioning in these areas.

Yearly Activity Timeline

In 2026, Abdul Mannan's recorded activity primarily involved his participation as a Member in the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on January 20th. No specific statements or actions were noted for him during this engagement.

Monthly Activity in 2026

During January 2026, Abdul Mannan attended the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on January 20th in his capacity as a Member. No specific statements or actions were recorded for him during this meeting.

Meetings in January 2026

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 20th January, 2026 6.30 p.m. - 20 January 2026

Abdul Mannan was present as a Member of the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee for the meeting on Tuesday, 20th January, 2026. No specific statements or actions were recorded for Abdul Mannan during this meeting.

Throughout 2025, Councillor Abdul Mannan played a significant role in council scrutiny, particularly within the Children & Education portfolio. He was appointed Scrutiny Lead for Children & Education in January and chaired the associated sub-committee multiple times throughout the year. His activities included leading discussions on free school meals, including evidence gathering and parental engagement, and advocating for the inclusion of Bullying in mental health discussions. Mannan also demonstrated a keen interest in broader council matters, posing detailed questions on the reserve budget, capital programs, housing, and public safety. He was elected Vice-Chair of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee in June and actively participated in discussions, proposing follow-up assessments for scrutiny sessions and suggesting specific community groups for consultation. He also raised concerns about the reduction of affordable housing targets and water pressure issues in new developments. Mannan emphasized the importance of clear communication and accurate recording in meetings, stating,

My name is Councillor Abdul-Mannan and I will be chairing this meeting.

and

I asked members at the meeting wanted to speak in my direction and to engage and speak clearly into the microphone so that they can be heard and their comment can be properly recorded.

He also showed consideration for cultural observances, suggesting rescheduling meetings to accommodate Ramadan and Eid.

Monthly Activity in 2025

During November 2025, Abdul Mannan was active in three council meetings. As a substitute at the Housing and Regeneration Scrutiny Subcommittee on November 3rd, he raised concerns about the government's reduction of the minimum affordable home percentage to 20% and its potential impact on the council's 40% target, questioning implications for private sales and developers, and referencing past recessionary issues. He also inquired about resident complaints regarding water pressure in new developments and the use of pumps by housing associations. At the Council meeting on November 19th, he asked about the prioritization of school street implementation. On November 25th, as Vice-Chair of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee, he questioned the Mayor about their achievements and pre-election goals, referencing his prior communication about the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee's focus on mental health and bullying in schools.

Meetings in November 2025

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 25th November, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 25 November 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North and serving as the Vice-Chair of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee, actively participated in the meeting on November 25, 2025. During the Mayor's spotlight session, he posed two key questions: What is the best thing that you have achieved this year? I know there's a lot of things you have achieved. And what is the one thing that you most wanted to achieve before the election? What is the best thing you have achieved this year? And what is the one thing that you wanted to achieve before the election? That's the highlight that you have done something for the council. Earlier, on October 13, 2025, Cllr Manan had informed the Committee that the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee would be focusing on mental health and bullying in schools.

Council - Wednesday, 19th November, 2025 7.00 p.m. - 19 November 2025

During the Council meeting on November 19th, 2025, Councillor Abdul Mannan inquired about the prioritization of school street implementation. He specifically asked,

I'm interested in identifying area of priority. Are there any school or area do you believe should be prioritised for school street implementation?

Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee - Monday, 3rd November, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 3 November 2025

Abdul Mannan attended the Housing and Regeneration Scrutiny Subcommittee meeting as a substitute. He raised two key concerns: first, he questioned the impact of the government's announcement to reduce the minimum affordable home percentage to 20% on the council's draft target of 40%. He specifically asked how this would affect private sales and developers, referencing past instances during recessions where unsold properties led to issues. Second, he inquired about residents' complaints regarding water pressure in new developments and the use of pumps by housing associations to address this, asking about the council's awareness and plans for new developments.

thank you chair thank you for lead member and the the panels for your hard work and presentations i think very much from my colleague my specific question that the new announcement from the government to the city hall which is minimum percent affordable home to 20 percent and we need to build other houses my question to lead member is how will it affect our draft yet of 40 percent what you can discipline how how do you adopt food because we ask also if this plan go for 20 percent that means there's more house to be sold for private and developers would they be able to sell it and if there's an affordable home they'll be building what would be drawing the line into it because we've seen in the past it's happened and therefore a lot of house or my world lot of house in 2008 or during the recession couldn't sell on and then they have to focus of developers are we going to be a definitely similar sort of thing like st andrews and those that's a prime example i'm trying to hold you up with this another question to see we've seen a lot of development happening and a lot of residents are complaining about the water pressure and a lot of rsl are putting pump to produce a pump in the building to increase the pressure so that they can go up high are we aware of it and what are we going to do with the new department coming into an effect thank you

During the October 2025 Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on the 20th, Councillor Abdul Mannan, in his role as Chair, presided over the proceedings. He informed members that the 2025/26 work programme had been agreed and requested that Bullying be added to the Mental Health discussion. He also asked members to submit further work programme suggestions to Daniel Kerr by 24 September 2025. Additionally, he requested an update on an investigation into the death of a child, with officers to determine if further details could be disclosed. He concluded the meeting by signing the minutes as Chair.

Meetings in October 2025

Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Monday, 20th October, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 20 October 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan, in his capacity as Chair of the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee, presided over the meetings on 22 September 2025 and 20 October 2025. On 22 September, he introduced the new Parent Governor Co-optee, Housnara Ali, and seconded the nomination of Councillor Suluk Ahmed for Vice-Chair. He also signed the minutes as correct at the conclusion of that meeting. During the 20 October meeting, he informed Members that the 2025/26 work programme had been agreed and requested that Bullying be added to the Mental Health discussion. He also asked Members to submit further work programme suggestions to Daniel Kerr by 24 September 2025. Furthermore, he requested an update on an investigation into the death of a child, with officers to determine if further details could be disclosed. At the end of the 20 October meeting, he signed the minutes as Chair.

During September 2025, Councillor Abdul Mannan was active in two council sub-committee meetings. On September 4th, he proposed Councillor Ahmodul Kabir for the Vice-Chair position of the Health and Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee. On September 22nd, in his role as Chair of the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee, he opened the meeting, welcomed attendees, and outlined procedures. He also proactively suggested rescheduling a future meeting to accommodate Ramadan and Eid, stating,

The last meeting, I think it was the 26th of March, something like that. When it comes to close, we may have to bring the meeting forward due to Ramadan, and the Eid as well, because it's a couple of days before the Eid, then we may not get quorum because of the special day and this and like that. But as the time closes, I will give you enough notice to shift the meeting a week earlier, if that will be okay.

It is also noted that he declared his wife works for Contract Services during a meeting on May 8, 2025, though this declaration occurred outside of September 2025.

Meetings in September 2025

Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Monday, 22nd September, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 22 September 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan, in his capacity as Chair of the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee, opened the meeting, welcomed attendees, and explained the meeting's procedures. He also proactively suggested rescheduling a future meeting to accommodate Ramadan and Eid, stating,

The last meeting, I think it was the 26th of March, something like that. When it comes to close, we may have to bring the meeting forward due to Ramadan, and the Eid as well, because it's a couple of days before the Eid, then we may not get quorum because of the special day and this and like that. But as the time closes, I will give you enough notice to shift the meeting a week earlier, if that will be okay.

Additionally, for transparency, he declared that his wife works for Contract Services during the meeting on 8 May 2025.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 15th September, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 15 September 2025

There is no record of Abdul Mannan speaking or taking any action during the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on 2025-09-15.

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday, 4th September, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 4 September 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan proposed Councillor Ahmodul Kabir for the position of Vice-Chair of the Health and Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee.

During July 2025, Abdul Mannan was noted as being present at the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on July 29th. No specific actions or statements were attributed to him during the Council meeting on July 16th.

Meetings in July 2025

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 29th July, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 29 July 2025

Abdul Mannan was present at the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on 29th July 2025.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 21st July, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 21 July 2025

Based on the provided transcript, Abdul Mannan did not say or do anything during the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on July 21st, 2025. There is no mention of his participation.

Council - Wednesday, 16th July, 2025 7.00 p.m. - 16 July 2025

There is no record of Abdul Mannan saying or doing anything specific during the Council meeting on 2025-07-16. He is noted as being present at a previous meeting on 14 May 2025, but no actions or statements are attributed to him in the provided documents for the 16th July meeting.

During June 2025, Councillor Abdul Mannan was a prominent figure in the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting. He was elected as the Vice-Chair of the committee for the 2025/26 municipal year and also elected as the Lead Member for the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee. Councillor Mannan actively participated in discussions, making nominations for other scrutiny lead positions. He proposed a six-month follow-up to assess the progress of recommendations from the Net Zero Scrutiny Challenge Session, emphasizing the importance of tracking the implementation of work and energy invested. He also inquired about targeting specific community groups, suggesting the inclusion of tenants and residents associations and faith groups, and raised concerns about monitoring inequalities data during the consultation process for the Net Zero Scrutiny Challenge Session.

Meetings in June 2025

Rearranged from 20 May 2025, Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 2nd June, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 2 June 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan was actively involved in the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on June 2nd, 2025. He was nominated by Councillor Gulam Kibria Choudhury and seconded by Councillor Ahmodur Khan, and subsequently elected as the Vice-Chair of the committee for the 2025/26 municipal year. He also nominated himself for and was elected as the Lead Member for the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee. Beyond these leadership roles, Councillor Mannan participated in discussions and made nominations for other scrutiny lead positions, including Health and Adults, Housing and Regeneration, Finance and Resources, and Environment and Climate Emergency. He also made a significant suggestion regarding the Net Zero Scrutiny Challenge Session, proposing a six-month follow-up to assess the progress of recommendations:

Finally, thank you, Chair. Councillor Belal Uddin, I was a great part of your committee as well last year, doing all the military work programme. You've done a wonderful job. Everybody, officers, everybody deserve it. Clap for that. And I also want to say, there's a very good recommendation, 16 of them. My fundamental question to the outgoing chair and the incoming lead member for that. Yes, it's a good recommendation, but can we have a follow-up in six months down the line? How far has the progress gone into this recommendation? Can you get feedback on this? Because a lot of work and energy gone in, visiting hospitals, and surgery, and doctors, and all this. And I would like to see progression six months down the line, what has been done? Because I went to a lot of surgery. I went to hospital with you as well, taking time out from work. And not only that myself, officers and other counsellors as well. So, that's my suggestion or recommendation to the new lead member. Can you please don't forget, we need to follow up, as Asma said as well, when it's policy in six months down the line, what's the progress on the recommendation? Thank you, Councillor. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you for your time and thank you for giving to us for the last one year. Most of the time you worked with you. Anyway, I must answer that question.

He also raised a question about targeting specific community groups and monitoring inequalities data during the consultation discussion for the Net Zero Scrutiny Challenge Session:

Thank you, Councillor Mandan. Councillor, can I – I've got a question. For point two, when it talks about targeting sections of the community, can we add tenants and residents association and faith groups as well? And also, in terms of monitoring inequalities data in this consultation, how do we keep on top of that? As you know, data is very important when it comes to, you know, things like this, and sometimes, you know, as a council, we can't – you know, when I first became a councillor, this was one of the main issues that I saw in terms of data, correct data wasn't there. So, how would you do that, please?

During May 2025, Councillor Abdul Mannan was active in two council meetings, focusing on the Children and Education portfolio. On May 6th, as Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education, he provided an update on the drafting of the CESSC Scrutiny Report on Free School Meals, noting that the report, which includes recommendations for the School Food System, had been well-received and was anticipated for further discussion. On May 8th, he chaired the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting. During this meeting, he outlined procedures for members and declared a Disclosable Pecuniary Interest due to his partner's employment at a school involved in school meal provision, as the meeting agenda included items on free school meals.

Meetings in May 2025

Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday, 8th May, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 8 May 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan chaired the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on May 8th, 2025. He opened the meeting and outlined the procedures, instructing members to speak clearly into the microphone for proper recording. He also declared a Disclosable Pecuniary Interest (DPI) because his partner works at a school that supplies school meals, and one of the meeting's items concerned free school meals.

Rearranged from 29 April 2025, Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 6th May, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 6 May 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan, Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education, provided an update on the drafting of the CESSC Scrutiny Report on Free School Meals. He announced that the report has been drafted following the Sub-Committee's Challenge Session and includes recommendations to support the School Food System. Mannan noted that the report has been well-received by Members and Officers and expressed anticipation for its final sharing and discussion at the next Sub-Committee meeting.

During April 2025, Abdul Mannan attended two meetings: the Council meeting on Wednesday, 2nd April, and the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on Tuesday, 8th April. There is no record of him speaking or taking any action in either of these meetings.

Meetings in April 2025

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 8th April, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 8 April 2025

Abdul Mannan was present at the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on 03 February 2025. There is no record of him speaking or taking any action during this meeting.

Council - Wednesday, 2nd April, 2025 7.00 p.m. - 2 April 2025

There is no record of Abdul Mannan speaking or taking any action during the Council meeting on Wednesday, 2nd April, 2025.

During March 2025, Councillor Abdul Mannan, Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education, was noted as being late for the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on March 25th. He provided an update on the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee Challenge Session on Free School Meals, which he chaired. This session involved evidence gathering, including school visits and a parental engagement session with 51 parents, as well as input from Youth Council Members and a review of the Universal Free School Meal Phase 5 Evaluation Report. Councillor Mannan expressed gratitude to all contributors and indicated that the final report is in draft and will be shared with the CESSC on May 8th, 2025, with members reconvening after Ramadan for further input.

Meetings in March 2025

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 25th March, 2025 5.30 p.m. - 25 March 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan, a member of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee and Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education, was noted as being late for the meeting on 25th March 2025. He provided an update on the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee Challenge Session on Free School Meals, which he chaired on 20th February. He highlighted the evidence-gathering process, which included school visits and a parental engagement session attended by 51 parents. The session also involved hearing from Youth Council Members and reviewing the Universal Free School Meal Phase 5 Evaluation Report. Councillor Mannan thanked all contributors to the evidence-gathering process and mentioned that the final report is being drafted and will be shared with the CESSC on 8th May 2025, with members reconvening after Ramadan to provide further input.

During February 2025, Councillor Abdul Mannan was actively involved in several council meetings. He chaired the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee on February 13th, where he welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of clear communication for accurate recording, stating,

My name is Councillor Abdul-Mannan and I will be chairing this meeting.

and

I asked members at the meeting wanted to speak in my direction and to engage and speak clearly into the microphone so that they can be heard and their comment can be properly recorded.

In the Reserve Budget Meeting on February 4th, Mannan posed detailed questions regarding the capital program's four-year basis, its resilience, and governance. He also inquired about paused council-built home schemes, the rainy day contingency plan, the scope of the school uniform initiative, and the financial implications of unproceeded capital schemes. Additionally, he raised concerns about rent increases for those not on benefits and communication with residents regarding rent and planned works.

At the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on February 18th, Mannan questioned the Borough Commander about managing and reducing child exploitation related to drugs and organized crime, sharing a personal observation and asking about protective measures for vulnerable children. He also addressed Councillor Talha Chowdhury about the rise in thefts near DLR stations, inquiring about CCTV coverage and joint efforts with TFL to address these incidents.

Meetings in February 2025

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 18th February, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 18 February 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North, posed two key questions during the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on February 18th, 2025. His first question was directed to the Borough Commander, focusing on the management and reduction of child exploitation related to drugs and organized crime. He shared a personal observation of drug dealers using underage children for distribution and inquired about protective measures for these children. Secondly, Councillor Mannan addressed Councillor Talha Chowdhury regarding the recent surge in thefts, particularly mobile phone snatchings near DLR stations. He sought information on the actions being taken to combat this, specifically asking about CCTV coverage at these locations and any joint efforts with TFL to mitigate these incidents.

Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday, 13th February, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 13 February 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan chaired the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on February 13, 2025. He opened the meeting by welcoming attendees, outlining the purpose and procedures, and instructing members to speak clearly into the microphone for proper recording. He stated, My name is Councillor Abdul-Mannan and I will be chairing this meeting. He also added, I asked members at the meeting wanted to speak in my direction and to engage and speak clearly into the microphone so that they can be heard and their comment can be properly recorded.

Reserve Budget Meeting, Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 4th February, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 4 February 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North, actively participated in the Reserve Budget Meeting by posing several detailed questions. He sought to understand the four-year basis of the capital program (2024-2028), its resilience against future administrative changes, and the governance surrounding it. Mannan also questioned the reasons behind the long-standing planning and subsequent halting or pausing of specific council-built home schemes, inquiring if these were member-led decisions. He probed the rainy day contingency plan for 2025-26, asking for its amount and purpose. Furthermore, he requested clarification on the scope of the school uniform initiative, specifically its applicability to different year groups and school types. Mannan also inquired about the financial implications of unproceeded or underspent capital program schemes, asking if funds revert to the general fund or are reallocated. Finally, he raised concerns about rent increases, particularly for those not on benefits and earning just above £50,000, including single parents, and how communication regarding rent increases and planned works is managed for residents.

During January 2025, Councillor Abdul Mannan was appointed as the Scrutiny Lead for Children & Education. This significant role includes the responsibility of chairing the Children & Education Scrutiny sub-committee.

Meetings in January 2025

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 28th January, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 28 January 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan, a member of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee, raised several questions during the meeting. He inquired about the progress in filling vacant posts and the plans to ensure a full service. He also addressed the issue of over-subscription to women's swimming sessions, particularly during winter, and asked about measures to manage the anticipated increase in demand during the summer months. Furthermore, he brought up a suggestion from the doctor forum in Tower Hamlets regarding the incorporation of free swimming into physiotherapy, given the existing physiotherapy services at Marlins Hospital, and asked if this could be considered to help people with disabilities. Specifically, he asked:

How close are you to fulfilling the vacant posts, and what are the plans for filling them to ensure a full service?

Regarding over-subscription to women's swimming sessions, especially during the winter months, what measures will be taken to manage the expected increase in demand during the summer?

Council - Wednesday, 22nd January, 2025 7.00 p.m. - 22 January 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan attended the Council meeting on January 22, 2025. He spoke in support of the Ofsted report, thanking the lead members for children's services, the mayor, council staff, and all involved for the outstanding results achieved from 2017 to 2024. He emphasized the significance of this achievement and encouraged other departments to strive for the same standard. He also mentioned his role as the Schooling Chair of Children's Services.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I'd like to thank you and lead members for children's services and the mayor and the council staff and all of the people involved who gave outstanding results from 2017 to 2024.

It is a great achievement.

So everybody who has put their work into this department, well done, congratulations and we should all be aiming at other departments doing the same as well.

So, other speakers have spoken.

This is a benchmark set by the children's services.

As I said, I'm the Schooling Chair of Children's Services.

We should aim at other services to achieve this standard as well.

Thank you.

Budget Meeting, Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 14th January, 2025 6.30 p.m. - 14 January 2025

Councillor Abdul Mannan was appointed as the Scrutiny Lead for Children & Education. This role includes chairing the Children & Education Scrutiny sub-committee.

Throughout 2024, Councillor Abdul Mannan demonstrated consistent engagement across various council committees, focusing on scrutiny, governance, and community well-being. He actively chaired the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee on multiple occasions (July, October, December), posing detailed questions on topics ranging from EMA applications and headteacher performance to school place planning and mental health transitions. Mannan also served as Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education and Resources. His inquiries often delved into accountability and clarity within council operations, as seen in his questions regarding internal governance arrangements and contract awards. He voiced concerns about the impact of council decisions on vulnerable communities, including the Bangladeshi community's pandemic recovery, the needs of unpaid carers, and the implications of flooding incidents. Mannan also took on leadership roles, delivering a report on the administration's achievements in May and expressing gratitude to outgoing and welcoming incoming speakers at the Annual Council meeting. He was also appointed Scrutiny Lead for Resources in May and re-elected as Scrutiny Lead for Children's and Education in November.

Monthly Activity in 2024

During December 2024, Councillor Abdul Mannan was actively involved in two council meetings. On December 5th, he chaired the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee, where he opened the meeting, declared his interests, and posed numerous questions regarding school place planning, post-16 capacity, school closure strategies, the impact of VAT on private schools, staff retention, and the transition of young people to adult mental health services. He also signed off on the minutes from a previous meeting in his capacity as Chair. On December 17th, representing Bromley North, Mannan raised significant concerns about a recent flooding incident, highlighting issues with the Canal River Trust's automated systems and their lack of priority in emergencies. He emphasized the risk to over 1,000 houses due to the system's failure and a lack of clear responsibility and communication between the Trust and the council, urging for improved communication and automatic responses in future emergencies.

Meetings in December 2024

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 17th December, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 17 December 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North, highlighted concerns regarding a recent flooding incident. He stated that he and Natalie had visited the site a month prior and identified issues with the Canal River Trust's automated systems. Mannan emphasized that these systems are not a priority for the Trust in emergencies, with manual intervention being the only response. He expressed concern that over 1,000 houses are at risk of flooding if the automated system fails, as it did during the recent event. Mannan attributed the flooding not solely to heavy rain, but to the failure of the automatic gate to open and release water, and a lack of clear responsibility and communication between the Canal River Trust and the council. He urged the council to find a way to mitigate these risks through improved communication and ensure an automatic response in future emergencies.

Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday, 5th December, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 5 December 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan chaired the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on December 5th, 2024. He opened the meeting, outlining procedures and declaring his interests as a trustee of Eternal Giving, KERA Centre, and the Island Advice Centre. Throughout the meeting, he actively engaged by asking several pertinent questions. These included inquiries about school place planning in light of declining birth rates and migration, capacity at the post-16 stage, and the council's strategy for school closures due to declining roles. He also sought information on the potential impact of VAT on private schools, the council's approach to staff retention and upskilling for consistent quality, and the decision-making process for school closures or mergers. Furthermore, he inquired about measures to support the transition of young people to adult mental health services and the success of the additional resource provision pilot for special needs. His role as Chair was also evident in the minutes of the previous meeting on October 17th, 2024, where he signed off as Chair.

During November 2024, Councillor Abdul Mannan was an active participant in council meetings. In the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee on November 5th, he focused on understanding and improving services for residents, particularly those over 55. He asked detailed questions about Linkage Plus and Tower Hamlets Connect, seeking clarification on service balance, monitoring methods, promotional strategies, and the accessibility of information for older residents. He also inquired about Gateway Housing Association's role in partnerships and resident awareness of available services. Later, on November 26th, at the Overview & Scrutiny Committee, Councillor Mannan was elected as the Scrutiny Lead for Children's and Education. During a discussion about a vote rerun, he commented on the process, stating,

Due respect to everybody here. These are, intentionally he didn't delay it but then again, just a few minutes ago your Chair, our Chair, whatever his mistake he would have knowingly didn't cast the vote. So what do you draw the line? We're here to serve the community. You're just making an argument for nothing. Sorry, you do sorry.

Meetings in November 2024

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 26th November, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 26 November 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North (Aspire), was nominated for and subsequently elected as the Scrutiny Lead for Children's and Education. During a discussion about a vote rerun, Councillor Mannan expressed his views, stating,

Due respect to everybody here. These are, intentionally he didn't delay it but then again, just a few minutes ago your Chair, our Chair, whatever his mistake he would have knowingly didn't cast the vote. So what do you draw the line? We're here to serve the community. You're just making an argument for nothing. Sorry, you do sorry.

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 5th November, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 5 November 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North and the Aspire party, actively participated in the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on November 5th, 2024. He posed several questions concerning the services offered by Linkage Plus and Tower Hamlets Connect. Specifically, he sought clarification on the balanced nature of the report on Linkage Plus's work, potential improvements to their services, and the methods used by social care staff and the council to monitor these services. Councillor Mannan also inquired about the council's strategies for promoting services for residents over 55 and the quality of information available on the TSCS website for older residents. He expressed a need for more detailed information on the services provided by Linkage Plus, requesting a clearer overview. Additionally, he questioned the extent of Gateway Housing Association's involvement in partnerships and whether residents in their properties were aware of the opportunities offered by Linkage Plus and Connect.

During October 2024, Councillor Abdul Mannan chaired the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on October 17th. He opened the meeting and addressed technical difficulties impacting online participation, stating, I will decide how to proceed after consulting officers. He also reminded members to speak clearly for accurate recording. While the provided details of his July 11th activities are not directly relevant to his October actions, they establish his ongoing role as Chair of this committee.

Meetings in October 2024

Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday, 17th October, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 17 October 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan chaired the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on October 17, 2024. He opened the meeting, introducing himself as the Chair. He addressed technical issues affecting online participation, stating he would decide how to proceed after consulting officers. He also reminded members to speak clearly into their microphones for accurate recording.

In his capacity as Chair, he had previously (on July 11, 2024) introduced Zaid ul-Islam to present proposed topics for the 2024/25 municipal year and informed members about the work programme. He also confirmed the availability for a site visit to care leavers services and discussed feedback from children on the Free School Meals service with Councillor Maium Talukdar. He concluded the July meeting by signing off as Chair.

During September 2024, Councillor Abdul Mannan was actively involved in several council meetings, focusing on policy implementation, social care, and governance. He raised concerns about the potential delays in the revised Homelessness Accommodation Placement Policy, questioning the risks and benefits and emphasizing the need to prioritize vulnerable residents. In the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee, he inquired about support for unpaid carers and measures to prevent dependency on social care. As Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education, he identified Free School Meals as the portfolio's next scrutiny review topic. Towards the end of the month, Mannan expressed significant concerns regarding the reassignment of a statutory office role without consultation, highlighting a departure from previous independent practice. He also questioned the urgency of a contract award and stated that he was not fully informed about a £190 million contract he was asked to sign, requesting better pre-meeting briefings for scrutiny chairs.

Meetings in September 2024

Extraordinary Meeting, Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 30th September, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 30 September 2024

Abdul Mannan raised concerns regarding a letter from the Chief Executive that informed committee members of the reassignment of the statutory office role to a directorate, rather than consulting them. He highlighted that this was a departure from previous practice, which involved the role being independent of any service area, and expressed surprise due to the lack of consultation and understanding of the rationale behind the change. He also voiced concerns about how this might function with a director overseeing a service area, referencing broader local government discussions about the effectiveness of such arrangements.

Additionally, Abdul Mannan questioned the urgency of a contract award, asking why it could not have been delayed until after a cabinet meeting instead of being decided two hours prior.

Finally, he made a statement about signing in, indicating he was not fully informed about what he was signing, did not receive the full report, and was unaware of the £190 million contract involved. He requested that scrutiny chairs be provided with the full report and explanation before being asked to sign any documents in the future.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 10th September, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 10 September 2024

During the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on 2024-09-10, Councillor Abdul Mannan, in his capacity as Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education, indicated that the portfolio's scrutiny review topic would be Free School Meals.

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 3rd September, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 3 September 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North and the Aspire party, inquired about the adult social care framework's provisions for unpaid carers. He specifically asked how their needs are assessed and supported, and what follow-up mechanisms are in place. Additionally, he sought to understand the specific measures implemented to prevent dependency on social care for individuals with low needs.

Call in: - Approval of the councilâs revised Homelessness Accommodation Placement Policy, Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 2nd September, 2024 6.00 p.m. - 2 September 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing the Aspire party for Bromley North, raised concerns about the potential delay in implementing the revised Homelessness Accommodation Placement Policy. He questioned the risks and benefits of waiting for the government's comprehensive spending review before making significant changes to the policy. Councillor Mannan suggested that delaying the decision could benefit families by preventing them from being moved from their current locations, potentially further away. He also challenged the notion that the council implements policy in its own best interest, emphasizing the need to prioritize the well-being of vulnerable residents, families, and children placed in temporary accommodation.

During July 2024, Councillor Abdul Mannan was elected as the Scrutiny Lead for Children & Education, a role that includes chairing the Children & Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee. He actively chaired the Sub-Committee meeting on July 11th, posing numerous questions on topics such as the EMA application process, headteacher performance, council authority over academies, potential ASD provisions, the Bowe Community Hub, recruitment strategies for young people, and the feasibility of reinstating programs like Rally International. In the Council meeting on July 17th, representing Bromley North, he questioned petitioners regarding the Boundary Estate community laundrette, specifically inquiring about their awareness of the laundrette not meeting the 2021 community premises criteria and whether it was consulted during the criteria's establishment. There is no record of his participation in the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on July 23rd.

Meetings in July 2024

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 23rd July, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 23 July 2024

There is no record of Abdul Mannan speaking or taking any action in the provided transcript for the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on 2024-07-23.

Council - Wednesday, 17th July, 2024 7.00 p.m. - 17 July 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North, questioned petitioners concerning the Boundary Estate community laundrette. He inquired whether the petitioners were aware that the laundrette did not meet the criteria for the community premises portfolio established in 2021, and whether the Boundary Estate community laundrette had any input or was consulted during the setting of these criteria. There is no record of Abdul Mannan speaking or taking any action in the Public reports pack.

Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday, 11th July, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 11 July 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan served as the Chair of the Children and Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee for the meeting on July 11, 2024. He opened the meeting, welcomed attendees, and managed procedural matters, including introductions of members and governors. Throughout the meeting, Councillor Mannan actively engaged by asking questions on various topics. He inquired about the EMA application process and its award criteria, the council's approach to concerns regarding headteachers and school governing body performance, and the council's authority over academies. He also sought information on potential new ASD-specific provisions, plans for reopening the Bowe Community Hub, and strategies for recruiting young people, especially care-experienced individuals, into council roles and internships. Additionally, he asked about the feasibility of reinstating programs like Rally International.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 9th July, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 9 July 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan was elected as the Scrutiny Lead for Children & Education. This role includes chairing the Children & Education Scrutiny Sub-Committee.

During June 2024, Abdul Mannan served as a Deputy member of the Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee. His primary recorded activity for the month was his role in chairing a previous meeting of this committee held on May 13, 2024, which concluded at 8:53 pm.

Meetings in June 2024

Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee - Monday, 24th June, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 24 June 2024

Abdul Mannan was a Deputy member of the Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee. He chaired the meeting held on 13 May 2024, which concluded at 8:53 pm.

During May 2024, Abdul Mannan was actively involved in council proceedings and committee leadership. He delivered a comprehensive report to the council on May 8th, highlighting the administration's achievements over the past two years, contrasting them with the previous Labour administration's financial issues, and detailing investments in youth services, education, and leisure. He also voted on budget motions and spoke about ongoing struggles related to immigration and free speech. Mannan chaired the Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee on May 13th, managing the meeting, resident feedback, and addressing outstanding actions. On May 15th, he spoke at the Annual Council meeting, offering praise and gratitude to the outgoing speaker for his great job and wonderful job as an ambassador and fundraiser, particularly noting the personal significance of the chosen hospice charity. He also welcomed and commended the newly elected speaker for his commitment and character. By May 21st, Mannan took on new responsibilities, being appointed as Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education, and Scrutiny Lead for Resources for the Overview & Scrutiny Committee.

Meetings in May 2024

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Tuesday, 21st May, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 21 May 2024

During the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting on May 21st, 2024, Abdul Mannan was appointed to two significant roles: Scrutiny Lead for Children and Education, and Scrutiny Lead for Resources.

Annual Meeting, Council - Wednesday, 15th May, 2024 7.00 p.m. - 15 May 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan spoke three times during the meeting. He began by addressing the outgoing speaker, praising his great job and wonderful job as speaker, particularly highlighting his great ambassador for the borough role and his wonderful job raising money for charities. Mannan expressed personal gratitude for the speaker choosing St. Joseph Hospice, as he lost my father to cancer in a similar hospice place and understood how important the hospice is. He also thanked the speaker for his contribution as a speaker, noting that he truly did a really good job and conducted very difficult moments within the chamber with professional manner and with integrity. Mannan shared that he had had the pleasure of going to many events with yourself and wished the speaker well in future roles, stating, I'm sure you're going to do justice to that job. He also commented that the speaker to follow you has got a very tough job to keep up with the work that you've done. Following the election of the new speaker, Mannan thanked him for his hard work, your commitment to this part as a fast citizen, and called him a lovely man who carry on with your dignity. He specifically recalled an instance where the new speaker left your meeting and you just joined the groups who were fighting with each other, which shows your commitment for the people of my world. Mannan also reiterated his appreciation for the chosen charities, particularly Horse Spice and Eden Care, noting that Eden Care is a grassroots organization that developed within the community and they're run by volunteers, and that choosing them tells you a lot about you.

Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee - Monday, 13th May, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 13 May 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan chaired the Housing & Regeneration Scrutiny Sub Committee meeting on May 13, 2024. He opened the meeting, welcomed attendees, and outlined the procedures, including rules for speaking and remote participation. He reminded members to use microphones and silence mobile phones. He facilitated introductions and declarations of interest, noting that no apologies were received but that two councillors would be joining late. He moved the meeting to approve the previous minutes and addressed the outstanding actions log, stating that papers had been submitted and he had no additions. During the resident feedback session, he managed the flow of speakers, ensuring they spoke clearly and within their allocated time, and addressed technical issues with online speakers. He thanked residents for their contributions and reminded questioners to be concise. He committed that the committee would write to residents regarding the outcome of their discussions and that officers would take notes. He also stated that the committee would invite TACH officers to a future meeting if deemed necessary. In a previous meeting (February 29, 2024), as Chair, he informed members that no additional resources could be provided for increasing meetings, but the subject would be reviewed twice yearly. He also stated that he would request an update on the Housing Options service and consider resuming discussions on THCH and Poplar Harca to the next meeting if there was sufficient availability. He emphasized attendance at the HRSSC RP Performance Review on March 26, 2024, and presided over the meeting which concluded at 8:37 p.m.

Council - Wednesday, 8th May, 2024 7.00 p.m. - 8 May 2024

Abdul Mannan delivered a report to the council, highlighting the administration's achievements over the past two years. He congratulated the newly appointed permanent corporate directors and celebrated the transformation the administration has made, contrasting it with the previous Labour administration's financial instability and governance issues. Mannan detailed investments in youth services, educational maintenance allowances, free school meals, and the Be Well leisure service. He also noted the reversal of previous cuts and the freezing of councillor allowances. Mannan seconded a motion presented by Councillor Saied Ahmed, emphasizing the administration's consistent prioritization of residents and their efforts to rectify disregard of governance from the prior administration, including issues with audited accounts, VAT payments, and missed savings targets. He expressed pride in the administration's ambitious and transformative agenda and encouraged support for the budget motion. Mannan voted against two amendments and for the main Budget Motion. He also spoke about the struggles of those who came before, referencing anniversaries of events like the Metro Alka Valley and the Nell bombing, and stated that the fight is not done regarding issues like immigration raids and crackdowns on protests and free speech.

During April 2024, Councillor Abdul Mannan was active in three council meetings. At the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee on April 18th, he declared no conflicts of interest and questioned the removal of the mental health priorities item from the agenda. On April 22nd, at the Overview & Scrutiny Committee, he sought clarification on the measures in place for reporting clarity and accountability within the Council's internal governance arrangements review, asking: > Regarding the review of the Council's internal governance arrangement, what a specific measure has been taken to ensure clarity of reporting and accountability. Finally, at the Development Committee on April 25th, he noted that agenda item 5.1 might fall within his ward.

Meetings in April 2024

Development Committee - Thursday, 25th April, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 25 April 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan informed the committee that item 5.1 may be within his own ward.

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 22nd April, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 22 April 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North, inquired about the specific measures implemented to ensure clarity of reporting and accountability within the Council's internal governance arrangements review. He asked: > Regarding the review of the Council's internal governance arrangement, what a specific measure has been taken to ensure clarity of reporting and accountability.

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Thursday, 18th April, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 18 April 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North ward and chair of the scrutiny for housing, was present at the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting. He declared that he had nothing to declare. Councillor Mannan also inquired about the reason for the mental health priorities item being removed from the agenda.

During February 2024, Councillor Abdul Mannan attended the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on February 20th. No specific actions or statements were recorded for him during this meeting.

Meetings in February 2024

Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 20th February, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 20 February 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan was present at the Health & Adults Scrutiny Sub-Committee meeting on 20th February 2024. There is no record of him speaking or taking any specific action during the meeting.

During the January 29th Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting, Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North and the Aspire party, inquired about the pandemic's disproportionate impact on the Bangladeshi community and their recovery challenges. He also declared a non-financial interest as a Board of Director for the Bromley by Bow Centre.

Meetings in January 2024

Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Monday, 29th January, 2024 6.30 p.m. - 29 January 2024

Councillor Abdul Mannan, representing Bromley North and the Aspire party, participated in the Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting. He raised a question concerning the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on the Bangladeshi community and their recovery challenges compared to other communities. Additionally, Councillor Mannan declared a non-financial interest as a Board of Director for the Bromley by Bow Centre.