Boris strengthens bid for HCA powers

In the letter to the communities secretary, Eric Pickles, the signatories set out an agreement on how the three bodies would work together to deliver greater efficiencies if they were granted new powers.

The mayor, Boris Johnson, makes it clear his priority is for the functions and resources of the Homes and Communities Agency in London and the London Development Agency to be transferred to the Greater London Authority.

He also wants to see the Olympic Park Legacy Company set up as a mayoral development corporation.

Mr Johnson has previously requested the transfer of the HCA budget and powers, which is in line with commitments made by the Conservative Party in the run up to the general election.

By securing the backing of London Councils and the assembly he hopes to strengthen his case.

Mr Johnson said: ‘Too much is controlled by Whitehall and measured by standards that don’t apply specifically to Londoners, meaning our devolution settlement has remained weak with much room for improvement, particularly where decisions should be taken by those in the local communities they affect.

‘It is time to act, and we are delighted to be working in agreement with London Councils and the assembly who are both key to the success of any devolution package for London.’

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