Governing London

How can London act as a capital in service to the UK and a competitive global city, with exemplar public services and world-class governance?

London is a global icon. Its economy, brand and identity are among the strongest of any city worldwide. Our Mayor and governance system are recognised and discussed internationally.

The city is home to almost 10 million people. It serves as the political, cultural and economic capital of the UK. With 6.2 million voters, it operates as a city democracy in its own right.

But governing a city of this prominence and size is complex – and increasingly so. National and international narratives paint London as both ‘paved with gold’ and ‘crime-ridden’, detracting from genuine conversations around Londoners needs.

National debate too often pits London against the rest of the country. The result is a city whose residents are often ignored and whose current political or fiscal powers do not match up to London’s national economic importance and global status.

Governance lies at the heart of a prosperous and functional city. It shapes how power is exercised, how decisions are made and how effectively the city delivers for its people and the wider UK. Our research examines how a stronger democratic system and public services could help London compete better globally, support the national economy and deliver for the people who live here.

The programme has two phases:

  • Phase 1: Scoping the key research questions
  • Phase 2: In depth analysis and research.

Partnering with London Councils on Phase 1 of the programme, Governing London drives a fresh conversation about London’s role in the UK and the world. It builds an evidence base on how to strengthen democracy from the bottom up, through a functional governance system, exemplary public services and use of public space. It considers how power, responsibility and resource should be shared to best service Londoners.

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