Agenda, decisions and minutes

The Mayor welcomed all those present to the meeting and thanked everyone for their attendance.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Collymore and Rubin.

The Mayor reported that apologies for absence had been received from Councillors Collymore and Rubin.

To confirm as a correct record, the minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council held on Wednesday 17 May 2023.

AGREED that the minutes of the Annual Council meeting held on Wednesday 17 May 2023 be approved as a correct record.

It was RESOLVED that the minutes of the of the Annual Council meeting held on Wednesday 17 May 2023 be approved as a correct record.

Members are invited to declare at this stage of the meeting, the nature and existence of any relevant disclosable pecuniary or personal interests in the items on this agenda and to specify the item(s) to which they relate.

Councillor Lorber declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 15.2 (Liberal Democrats motion (Protecting, preserving and promoting Parks and Open Spaces in Brent) as a Director and Trustee of Barham Park Community Library given the reference to Barham Park within the motion.

Councillor Lorber declared a personal interest in Agenda Item 15.2 (Liberal Democrats motion (Protecting, Preserving and Promoting Parks and Open Spaces in Brent) as a Director and Trustee of Barham Community Library given the reference to Barham Park within the motion.

There were no other declarations of interest made at the meeting.

To receive any announcements from the Mayor.

Announcements from the Mayor were noted in relation to:

·             Kings Birthday Honours List 2023

·             Pride Flag Raising Event

·             75^th Anniversary of Windrush event

·             Reopening of Harlesden Library

·             Srebrenica Memorial Event

·             Barham Primary School shortlist in “Community Collaboration” category Worlds Best School

·             Celebrating 75 years of the NHS

·             Community Cohesion

·             Death of Sir Ben Helfgott – including commemoration and tributes from Councillors Maurice & Nerva

·             Petitions

The Mayor made the following announcements:

(i)     Kings News Years Honours List 2023

The Mayor began her announcements by congratulating everyone connected with Brent who had received an honour in the King's 2023 Birthday Honours list.  Members were advised that this included Bob Blackman MP who had received a CBE for his outstanding contribution and dedication to public service and who had served as Deputy Leader of Brent Council between 2006 and 2010 and Leader of Brent Council between 1991 and 1996.

(ii)    Pride Flag Raising

The Mayor advised that she had been pleased to attend (along with many other councillors, staff and residents) an LGBTQ+ Flag raising event on the 6th June, arranged to mark Pride month.

(iii)    75 Anniversary of Windrush

The Mayor took the opportunity to thank all those involved in arranging a recent event held at the Civic Centre to honour 75 years of HMT Empire Windrush’s arrival in the UK.  Highlighting how wonderful it had been to see so many people attending and enjoying the event, the Mayor felt it important to recognise the significant opportunity this had provided to thank all those from that generation who made such sacrifices and contributed towards the rebuilding of post war Britain.

(iv)   Reopening of Harlesden Library

In terms of other engagements, the Mayor advised members it had also been her pleasure to attend and celebrate the official reopening of Harlesden Library.  Referring to the success of the Council in attracting grant funding from Arts Council England towards the refurbishment of the library in the hub of Harlesden, she was pleased to report that the opening event had been well attended and enjoyed by all who were there.

(v)    Srebrenica Memorial Event

The Mayor advised she had also been honoured to attend the recent Srebrenica Memorial Event, which had marked 28 years since the genocide at Srebrenica in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

(vi)   Barham Primary School

Congratulating the school on their achievement, the Mayor advised she had also been pleased to attend an event at Barham Primary School in order to celebrate them having achieved international recognition by being shortlisted for an award in the ‘Community Collaboration’ category, as one of the Top 10 schools in the prestigious World's Best School Prize.  Referring to the special ceremony she commended all those involved including the pupils for their performances.

(vii)   Celebrating 75 years of the NHS

The Mayor informed members she was delighted to be able to report that Jenny Lanyero, Team Manager of the Brent Health Inequalities Team, had recently been invited to attend a reception at No.10 Downing Street to celebrate 75 years of the NHS.  The reception had been attended by more than 100 NHS staff from across the country working at various levels and across a range of diverse services.  The Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had briefly attended along with Steve Barclay, as Secretary of State for Health and Social Care who when speaking had taken the time to recognise the history of the NHS  ...  view the full minutes text for item 5.

To agree any appointments to Committees and Outside Bodies in accordance with Standing Order 30(g).

AGREED

(1)    the following change in appointments to Outside Bodies:

The Mayor referred members to the list of changes circulated in relation to appointments to Council Committees, Sub Committees and other bodies.

Having considered the changes outlined it was RESOLVED:

(1)    To approve the following change in appointments to Outside Bodies:

To hear any deputations requested by members of the public in accordance with Standing Order 32.

No deputations were received at the meeting.

The Mayor advised that no deputations had been requested for presentation at the meeting.

7.1     To receive questions submitted by the public to Cabinet Members, in accordance with Standing Order 33.

Members are asked to note that three public questions have been received, which have been attached along with their written response.

7.2     To receive questions submitted by the Brent Youth Parliament to Cabinet Members, in accordance with Standing Order 33(c).

Members are asked to note that three questions have been received, which have been attached along with their written response.

Republished on 5 July 23 to include the final response to question 7.2(3)

NOTED

1.          The written response provided by the Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure & Climate Action to a public question submitted by Diane Richard regarding traffic safety in Wrottesley Road.  No supplementary question was received.

2.          The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Customers, Communities & Culture to a public question submitted by Fitzroy Lee on the extent of community engagement undertaken in relation to the renaming of Gladstone Park and Leopold.

3.          The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Customers, Communities & Culture to a public question submitted by Noreen Scott regarding the use of Gladstone Park to host a Windrush 75^th anniversary celebration event given previous concerns raised in relation to the naming of the Park.

4.          The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning & Growth to a question submitted by Brent Youth Parliament regarding access to employment services, financial information and guidance by young people and use of information available through the Flourishing Futures research project to focus on the barriers to employment being experienced by young people to support this process.

5.          The written response provided by the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Schools to a question submitted by Brent Youth Parliament regarding the financial support available for young people to assist in meeting the costs of college and higher education.  No supplementary question was received.

6.          The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Public Health & Adult Social Care to a question submitted by Brent Youth Parliament regarding the range of access to mental health support for young people and ability of the Youth Parliament to support future development and design of services.

8.1     Questions from the Public

The Mayor advised that the following three questions had been received from members of the public.

Question 1 from Diane Richard to Councillor Krupa Sheth (Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure & Climate Action) regarding the introduction of additional signage, traffic calming measures and enforcement of the vehicle weight restriction on Wrottesley Road, NW10.

Question 2 from Fitzroy Lee to Councillor Donnelly-Jackson (Cabinet Member for Customers, Communities and Culture) concerning the renaming of Gladstone Park and Leopold Primary School under the Mayor of London’s Diversity in the Public Realm initiative.

Question 3 from Noreen Scott to Councillor Donnelly-Jackson (Cabinet Member for Customers, Communities and Culture) regarding the use of Gladstone Park to host a Windrush 75^th anniversary celebration event given previous concerns raised in relation to the naming of the Park.

Members noted the written responses provided on each of the questions, which had been circulated with the agenda. The Mayor advised that each member of the public had been invited to the meeting in order to ask any supplementary question and whilst Diane Richard had been unable to attend, she was pleased to be able to welcome Fitzroy Lee and Noreen Scott to the meeting in order to ask a supplementary question.

The following supplementary questions were asked of the relevant Cabinet Member(s).

Question 2 Supplementary Question from Fitzroy Lee to Councillor Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Customers, Communities and Culture.

In noting the written response to his original question Fitzroy Lee sought further clarification on the extent of community engagement undertaken in relation to the renaming of Gladstone Park and Leopold School given what he felt had been the lack of reference to this within the original response.

In taking the opportunity to thank Fitzroy Lee for his question and attendance at the meeting, Councillor Donnelly-Jackson by way of further explanation confirmed that a series of drop in consultations had been conducted between December 2021 and January 2022.  These had led to the creation of the artwork in Gladstone Park that acknowledged the Gladstone family’s role in the slave trade and celebrated the considerable contribution and influence of African heritage to the cultural landscape of Brent.  Whilst recognising that the consultation process had taken place during the pandemic the efforts made by the Council to work with local community groups in order to promote the consultation events were highlighted, which it was pointed out had been open for all to attend.

Question 3 Supplementary Question from Noreen Scott to Councillor Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Customers, Communities and Culture.

In highlighting her disappointment at the response provided and use of Gladstone Park to host a Windrush 75^th anniversary celebration event Noreen Scott sought clarification on the basis of the decision to use the park for the event as opposed to Roundwood Park, which it was felt would have been more appropriate and inclusive as a venue.

In thanking Noreen Scott for the question, Councillor Donnelly-Jackson apologised if it was felt the original response had not  ...  view the full minutes text for item 8.

For Members to consider any petitions with more than 200 signatures on which a debate has been requested, in in accordance with the Council’s Petition Rules and Standing Order 66.

No petitions were presented at the meeting.

The Mayor advised that no requests for debates on any petitions had been received for consideration at the meeting.

To receive a report from the Leader of the Council in accordance with Standing Order 31 providing an update on any key or significant issues arising from any matter within the responsibility of the Cabinet.

NOTED the report and update provided at the meeting by Councillor Muhammed Butt, as Leader of the Council, highlighting the work being undertaken across each Cabinet portfolio alongside the efforts being made to manage the Council’s finances as efficiently as possible within the current economic climate in order to provide ongoing support and services to residents within the borough.  As part of the update the Leader took the opportunity to outline the work being undertaken to support young people and other members of the local community into employment as well as to extend business opportunities, with reference to the recent topping out ceremony for SEGRO V-Park Grand Union development and upcoming Brent Jobs Fair.

The Mayor then invited Councillor Muhammed Butt, as Leader of the Council, to introduce the report updating members on the work being undertaken across each Cabinet portfolio in order to provide ongoing support and services to residents within the borough.

In presenting the report, the Leader began by highlighting the work being undertaken across each Cabinet portfolio alongside the efforts being made to manage the Council’s finances as efficiently as possible within the current economic climate and in order to provide ongoing support and services to residents within the borough.  As part of the update the Leader took the opportunity to outline the work also being undertaken to support young people and other members of the local community into employment as well as to extend business opportunities, with reference to the recent topping out ceremony for SEGRO V-Park Grand Union development and upcoming Brent Jobs Fair.  Finally, members were asked to note the details on Executive decision(s) that had been taken under the Council’s urgency procedures, since the previous update provided for the Council meeting in November 2022, as tabled at the meeting.

The Mayor thanked the Leader for the report and it was RESOLVED to formally note the update provided.

For questions to be put to members of the Cabinet by Opposition and Non-Cabinet Members in accordance with Standing Order 35.

Four advance notice questions have been received under this item, which have been attached along with the written responses provided.

Members are asked to note that this session will also include an opportunity (within the time available) for other Non-Cabinet members and the Opposition to ask questions of Cabinet Members.

NOTED

1.     The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure and Climate Action to a question submitted by Councillor Choudry regarding the enforcement work being undertaken to tackle blue badge theft and fraud and how best to report concerns.

2.     The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters Security to a question submitted by Councillor Kennelly in relation to the work being undertaken with Housing Associations and other housing providers to tackle cases of mould and damp in properties and support available from the Council to assist in holding providers to account.

3.     The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Safer Communities and Public Protection and Cabinet Member for Public Health and Adult Social Care to a question submitted by Councillor Chan regarding the work being undertaken by the Council to address gambling as a public health issue as well as in terms of anti-social behaviour linked to the increase in adult gaming centres.

4.     The written and supplementary verbal response provided by the Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters Security to a question submitted by Councillor Georgiou regarding the rationale behind the approach taken to the implementation of proposals arising from the review of the housing estate caretaking service and associated impact on service charges and costs, which it was felt required further scrutiny.

Responses were also provided by the relevant Cabinet Members on the following additional questions raised during the open session of this part of the meeting:

·             Councillor Kansagra regarding the current approach towards the payment of carers allowances under the Members Allowance Scheme.

·             Councillor Lorber regarding the commitment towards the Neighbourhood Planning process and application of policies adopted as a result through the planning process.

·             Councillor Kennelly highlighting concern at the recent vandalism of commemoration tree planted by the Association of Jewish Refugees in Preston ward and action being taken to protect and prevent any further damage in future.

·             Councillor Mistry seeking assurance in relation to the Council’s policy on the collection of rent from vulnerable residents living within Supported Accommodation.

·             Councillor Kelcher regarding the Council’s commitment to continue supporting the improvement and development of parks and open spaces, including those located across Harlesden and Kensal Green ward such as Bramshill Road Park.

·             Councillor Long relating to accessibility of the details and information being provided on the Landlord Selective Licensing Scheme.

·             Councillor Jayanti Patel regarding the measures being taken to tackle and enforce against illegal footway parking along Kingsbury Road and around Kingsbury Circle.

·             Councillor Georgiou regarding the appropriateness of Shared Ownership being classified as a genuinely Affordable Housing option in the development of housing schemes across Brent and rationale behind the approach being to the disposal of 23 properties in Alperton due to be considered by Cabinet on 17 July 2023.

Before moving on to consider the questions submitted by non-Cabinet members, the Mayor reminded Members that a total of 30 minutes had been set aside for this item, which would begin with consideration of the written questions submitted in advance of the meeting along with any supplementary questions. Once these had been dealt with, the remaining time available would then be opened up for any other non-Cabinet members to question Cabinet Members (without the need for advance notice) on matters relating to their portfolio.

The Mayor advised that four written questions had been submitted in advance of the meeting for response by the relevant Cabinet Member and the written responses circulated within the agenda were noted. The Mayor then invited supplementary questions on the responses provided:

11.1   Councillor Choudry thanked Councillor Krupa Sheth, as Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure & Climate Action, for the written response in relation to his question regarding the enforcement and prevention of blue badge thefts across Brent.  As a supplementary question further details were sought on how residents should report any concerns regarding blue badge theft, fraud or misuse.

In response, Councillor Krupa Sheth advised that residents should report any concerns to either the Healthy Streets and Parking Team or Community Safety Team would then be able to liaise (as necessary) with the police.

11.2   Councillor Kennelly thanked Councillor Knight, as Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters Security for the written response in relation to his question concerning the partnership work being undertaken with Housing Associations to address cases of damp and mould.  In recognising the Council did not have powers to take enforcement action in cases involving Housing Associations, which were matters that fell under the Regulator for Social Housing and Housing Ombudsman, concern was expressed that the multi-layered system of agencies involved could potentially lead to unclear outcomes for residents.  As an example, he highlighted issues raised about conditions in a housing block located within his ward, which were now under investigation following contact with the Chief Executive of the relevant Housing Association.  As a supplementary question Councillor Kennelly sought details on the support available through the Council to assist in raising concerns about the standard and condition of properties managed through Housing Associations.

In responding, Councillor Knight, as Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters Security, outlined the type of support available in seeking to hold Housing Associations to account as part of the process in seeking to maintain and improve living standards for residents in the borough.  As part of this approach, regular meetings were held with the largest Housing Associations where issues could be raised, as appropriate, with assurance also having been sought on how they were seeking to improve their management of damp and mould.  Whilst reminding members of the Council’s lack of specific enforcement powers Councillor Knight ended by stating that the Council would continue to work with the Housing Associations to ensure that concerns and issues being raised in relation to the standard and condition of  ...  view the full minutes text for item 11.

To receive reports from the Chairs of the Council’s Scrutiny Committees in accordance with Standing Order 36. The reports have been attached as follows:

11.1    Resources & Public Realm Scrutiny Committee

11.2    Community & Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee

Members are asked to note that this session will include an opportunity (within the time available) for Non-Cabinet Members to ask questions of relevant Scrutiny Chair’s in relation to the remit of their Committees

NOTED the update reports provided by the Chair of the Resources & Public Realm and Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committees.

Responses were also provided on the following additional questions raised during the open session of this part of the meeting:

·                  From the Chair of the Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee to Councillor Kansagra seeking clarification on the outcome of the review on performance of Thames Water across the borough and Committee’s position regarding renationalisation of the utility service.

·                  From the Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee to Councillor Kabir regarding proposals for any planned new build hospital provision within the borough.

Before being presented with the updates from each Scrutiny Committee, the Mayor reminded members the time set aside for this item was 12 minutes, with each Chair having up to three minutes in which to highlight any significant issues arising from the work of their Committees.  Once these updates had been provided, the remaining time available would then be opened up for any other non-Cabinet members to question (without the need for advance notice) the Scrutiny Committee Chairs on matters relating to the work of their Committee.

Councillor Conneely was then invited to introduce the update report on the work being undertaken by the Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee, with the following issues highlighted:

·                 The broad ranging and dynamic nature of the Scrutiny Committee’s work programme for 2023-24

·                 Key issues identified for review as part of the Committee’s work programme had included monitoring ongoing delivery of the Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy and tracking the recommendations made by the Scrutiny Budget Task Group to ensure the proposals being developed moving forward continued to meet the needs of Brent’s residents; Brent’s Community Engagement and consultation Framework to ensure the way in which the Council consulted and engaged with local residents reflected the requirements being identified; progress in delivery of Brent’s Climate & Ecological Emergency Strategy 2021-2030 with updates to also be provided on the work being taken to tackle violence against women and girls as part of the Safer Brent Partnership Community Safety Strategy.

·                 As a final update, members were advised of the Committee’s ongoing concern in relation to the operation of Thames Water as a key public service provider both in terms of their recent financial challenges and also the transparency and level of local service being provided to customers.  With a representative having attended a recent meeting, it was confirmed that the Committee would continue to keep a watching brief in order to challenge local performance with the Chair supportive of any eventual move towards renationalisation of the service as a key public utility, given the performance concerns identified.

The Mayor thanked Councillor Conneely for her update and then invited Councillor Ketan Sheth as chair of the Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee to introduce the update report on the work being undertaken by that Committee.  The following issues were highlight as part of the update:

·             The broad ranging nature of the Committee’s work programme for 2023-24 with the Committee having already held its first meeting of the new Municipal Year to coincide with celebrations to mark the 75^th anniversary of the NHS.

·             Key issues considered at the initial Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee had been focussed around the delivery of health services to local residents including a review of the work being undertaken by the Council and local health partners to address health inequalities across the borough through the Brent Health Matters programme.  Whilst noting the positive and collaborative nature of work being undertaken locally, the Committee had also recognised the significant challenges still to be addressed in  ...  view the full minutes text for item 12.

To receive the first Annual Report jointly produced by the Chairs’ of the Audit and Standards Committee and Audit and Standards Advisory Committee updating on the work of both Committees in accordance with Standing Order 37.

NOTED the joint Annual Report provided by the Chairs of the Audit & Standards and Audit & Standards Advisory Committees outlining the work undertaken by both Committee’s during 2022-23.

The Mayor invited Councillor Chan, as Vice-Chair of the Audit & Standards Advisory Committee and Chair of the Audit and Standards Committee to introduce the first joint annual report from both Committees, updating members on the work undertaken during the 2022-23 Municipal Year.

Prior to introducing the report Councillor Chan welcomed David Ewart to the meeting in his role as Independent Chair of the Audit & Standards Advisory Committee and in terms of issues highlighted drew members’ attention to the important role and work undertaken by the Committee in relation to monitoring and advising on various governance matters relating to audit activity, the Council’s finance, accounting and regulatory framework as well as members standards of conduct.  This had included, as a key area of focus the measures introduced by the Council to mitigate against the impact of the current economic uncertainty and cost-of-living crisis being experienced in relation to the delivery of Council services and support for residents as well as the ongoing delivery of the Council’s Treasury Management Strategy.

Members were advised that the approach adopted towards the work undertaken had also included consideration of the Council’s risk management structure and strategic risk management process with an increasing focus not only on the effectiveness of governance processes relating to the first but also “second line” of defence in terms of the monitoring and reporting of information and data.  Highlighting the extensive nature of the work undertaken across both Committees, members were also advised of the joint work being developed with scrutiny given the overlap of responsibilities in relation to the oversight of the Council’s two subsidiary companies i4B and First Wave Housing Ltd and how this could be structured and managed.

In concluding, Councillor Chan thanked David Ewart for his support over the year and advised that both Committees were looking forward to continuing their work with members and other key stakeholders to ensure the necessary focus was maintained in relation to compliance and control of the Council’s key governance arrangements.

The Mayor thanked Councillor Chan for the update provided and it was RESOLVED to note the Joint Annual Report provided by the Chairs’ of the Audit & Standards and Audit & Standards Advisory Committees outlining the work undertaken by both Committee’s during 2022-23.

To enable Non Cabinet Members to raise an issue of relevance to Brent for debate on which notice has been provided in accordance with Standing Order 34 and to receive reports from Cabinet members, as required, on any issues previously raised.

Members are asked to note that the subject identified for debate at this meeting is as follows:

Casey Review of the Metropolitan Police

Please note: The motion submitted as the basis for this debate has been attached.

The following motion was unanimously AGREED as the outcome of the non-cabinet member debate:

“Casey Review – Metropolitan Police

This Council notes:

§    The damning findings of the March 2023 Casey Review, which showed a persistent and endemic culture of racism, misogyny, homophobia and violence against women within London’s Metropolitan Police force.

§    The recent BBC investigation that found that the Metropolitan Police seriously mishandled key inquiries related to a major suspect in the murder of Stephen Lawrence.

§    That whilst the Casey Review and the recent revelations about the Stephen Lawrence investigation are shocking, it will not be surprising to many in our communities across Brent who have been failed by the Metropolitan Police. Rather, these findings have further exposed an institution that has been known for systemic failures since before the murder of Stephen Lawrence in 1993.

§    The persistent failure of leadership at all levels of the Metropolitan Police to act decisively and remove dangerous officers from their posts, despite multiple reports showing their propensity for serious harm prior to the violence and destruction they subsequently caused to dozens of lives.

§    That the murder of Sarah Everard by Wayne Couzens, the dehumanising treatment of Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman, the Stephen Port murders, and the 48 rape offenses committed by David Carrick might have been prevented if swift and effective action had been taken at the time.

This Council also notes:

§    That crime disproportionately impacts members of the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities, those on the lowest incomes and members of the LGBTQ+ community, and that tackling crime across the borough means it is integral that these communities have trust and faith in the police that serve them.

§    Black people are nine times more likely to be stopped and searched by police than white people, official figures for England and Wales show.

§    As highlighted by Baroness Casey, it is not enough for the Metropolitan Police to “reflect” on what needs to change, but that it needs a complete overhaul in order to take firm and decisive action against racism, misogyny and homophobia.

§    The work of the Independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board, which has highlighted the reluctance of the Metropolitan Police so far to make any significant change.

§    Whilst this council recognises the heroic work done by many police officers, including our own neighbourhood officers here in Brent, there is clearly unfinished business in the police force if there is to be an end to the culture that enabled these horrifying injustices to take place.

This Council further notes:

§    Brent Council's efforts to address Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) through the following initiatives:

o      The establishment of a VAWG Scrutiny Task Group in 2020 which provided a set of recommendations on how best to utilise Council resources to help combat VAWG. These recommendations are currently being implemented and its progress regularly reviewed to ensure this issue remains a high priority for the Council.

o      Increased resources  ...  view the full decision text for item 14.

In accordance with Standing Order 34, the Mayor advised that the next item on the agenda was the non-Cabinet member debate, with the subject chosen for consideration being the Casey Review of the Metropolitan Police.

Members were advised that the motion submitted as the basis for the debate had been circulated with the agenda and that the time available for the debate was 25 minutes.

The Mayor then invited Councillor Dixon to introduce the motion. As context for the debate, Councillor Dixon began by referencing the Sarah Everard case and expressing concern that the subsequent review undertaken by Baroness Casey had been driven through the concerns highlighted by women and other groups rather than an internal desire for change within the Metropolitan Police.  Whilst it was felt that the Metropolitan Police could change and rebuild trust, Councillor Dixon highlighted that for many communities this would involve a long and complex process given the loss in faith of policing by consent and need for the Metropolitan Police to open itself up to scrutiny as a result of the damning findings in the Casey Review, which had shown a persistent and endemic culture of racism, misogyny, homophobia and violence against women.  In pointing to the findings of institutionalised racism, lack of leadership and professional incompetence detailed in the Macpherson Report which had followed the death of Stephen Lawrence, Councillor Dixon stated that the findings of the Casey Review were again shocking with a critical need for fundamental change identified in order to rectify the elitism within the Police, the abuses of frontline officers, and the misogyny and racism embedded in the force. In commending and valuing the model of local neighbourhood policing as an essential way forward, Councillor Dixon praised the work of the local Safer Neighbourhood Teams which she was keen to see properly resourced.  Highlighting the increasing democratic deficit between the Metropolitan Police and communities they served, Councillor Dixon hoped all members would support the motion in seeking to add their voice and back the call for the recommendations within the Casey Review to be implemented as soon as possible. including the provision of more powers to the Commissioner to tackle the issues identified, addressing issues in terms of recruitment and police numbers and the establishment of new teams to deal with rape and domestic abuse with the disbanding of teams where it was clear deep rooted issues had taken hold.  In highlighting the need for action, it was felt the measures identified were essential in seeking to address the lost of trust in the Metropolitan Police as well as in ensuring the safety of victims.

The Mayor thanked Councillor Dixon for introducing the motion and then opened up the debate for contributions from other members.

In supporting the motion, Councillor Johnson stressed that a city as diverse as London required a police service that reflected the communities it served, with everyone needing to feel fairly treated irrespective of their characteristics. In highlighting the major mishandling of key inquiries  ...  view the full minutes text for item 14.

To receive a report from the Corporate Director of Governance seeking agreement for changes to the Terms of Reference of the North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (“NWL JHOSC”).

Council RESOLVED to:

(1)      Agree the updated Terms of Reference for the North West London Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee (NWL JHOSC) a detailed within Appendix A of the report.

(2)      replace the current Terms of Reference for the NWL JHOSC included within Part 4 of Brent’s Constitution with the updated version approved under (1) above.

The Mayor then invited Councillor Muhammed Butt, as Leader of the Council, to introduce a report from the Corporate Director of Governance outlining a number of changes to the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the North West London Joint Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee (“NWL JHOSC”).

In introducing the report, it was noted that the amendments had been developed and agreed by the NWL JHOSC and were primarily designed to reflect changes in the North West London Health sector landscape with the introduction of the Integrated Care Systems (ICS) as well as clarify the current status where participation in the JHOSC would not preclude any scrutiny or right of response by individual boroughs.

As no other members indicated they wished to speak on the report and Councillor Muhammed Butt had confirmed he did not need to exercise any right of reply the Mayor then put the recommendations in the report to the vote and they were unanimously declared CARRIED.

Council therefore RESOLVED to:

(1)      Agree the updated Terms of Reference for the North West London Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee (NWL JHOSC) a detailed within Appendix A of the report.

(2)      replace the current Terms of Reference for the NWL JHOSC included within Part 4 of Brent’s Constitution with the updated version approved under (1) above.

To debate the motions submitted in accordance with Standing Order 41.

Members are asked to note:

·          The motions submitted for debate along with any subsequent amendments received have been attached.

·          Where a motion concerns an executive function, nothing passed can be actioned until approved by the Executive or an officer with the relevant delegated power

Agenda republished to include the motions submitted for debate on 5 July 2023 and amendments submitted in respect of the Conservative and Liberal Democrats motions on 10 July 2023.

(1)      Having been put to a vote, in accordance with Standing Order 42(l), the Motion submitted by the Conservative Group “Don’t Punish Brent’s Drivers” was withdrawn from consideration at the meeting.

(2)      Following the approval of an amendment moved by the Labour Group in relation to the original Motion submitted by the Liberal Democrats Group, the following Motion (as amended) was AGREED:

“Protecting, preserving and promoting Parks and Open Spaces in Brent

This Council notes:

Our borough is home to many wonderful green, open spaces and parks that are enjoyed by residents of all ages and backgrounds. From smaller parks like Mount Pleasant Open Space in Alperton, King Edward VII in Wembley, to historical parks like Barham Park and Gladstone Park, larger country parks in Fryent, and thriving open spaces in the Welsh Harp and Northwick Park, to name but a few.

These vital spaces must be protected, particularly if they are threatened by development that does not meet local need.

In recent years we have become even more aware of how important green spaces are for local people. During the Covid-19 pandemic and periods of lockdown, they became a sanctuary for so many who were able to spend time in them, benefiting both mental and physical health.

With the promise of much needed homes in Brent it is crucial that new residents are able to access open spaces in the areas they move to. Brent Council continues to work with partners to bring forward new developments to ensure they incorporate adequate large green space which is maintained by Housing Associations/ Managing Companies.  In Wembley Park, for example, a new seven-acre Union Park will feature a bandstand, children’s play areas, sport zones and urban meadow.  It replaces a former 1,000 space care and coach park and is one of the first new large public parks in London for decades and is Wembley’s first new mayor park in 150 years.

Achieving Climate Emergency targets relies heavily on safeguarding open spaces, protecting mature trees and important habitats for local wildlife. Without doing so, we risk missing these targets in or borough.

The decision by the Planning Committee to allow the building of houses located along the north-west corner ofBarham Park is in accordance with Brent Council’s long established Core Strategy of protecting Brent parks and open spaces from unwelcome development. The disposal of the properties at 776 and 778 Harrow Road was first taken by the Executive in December 2009. The decision made by the Planning Committee was on the basis of officer recommendation and discussion at the meeting, including the consideration of the Local Neighbourhood Plan. The Planning Committee decision does not result in the loss of any local green space from the redevelopment of the buildings and does not impact upon the ability to experience the area of the original historic landscape park.

The Barham Park decision does not result in the loss of any local green space and therefore re-affirms the existing precedent of maintaining the protection  ...  view the full decision text for item 16.

Before moving on to consider the motions listed on the summons, the Mayor advised members that a total of 40 minutes had been set aside for the consideration of the four motions submitted for debate, based on an initial allocation of 10 minutes per motion. Should the time taken to consider the first motion be less than 10 minutes he advised that the remaining time available would be rolled forward for consideration of the remaining motions.

16.1    1^st Motion (Conservative Group) – Don’t Punish Brent’s Drivers

The Mayor invited Councillor Kansagra to move the first motion which had been submitted on behalf of the Conservative Group.  Prior to addressing the motion, Councillor Kansagra felt there was a need to seek further advice on an amendment submitted in advance of the meeting by the Labour Group, which he was concerned had been designed to negate the basis of the original motion submitted for debate.  The concerns highlighted by Councillor Kansagra regarding the amendment were also shared by the Liberal Democrats Group who supported the view that the proposed amendment would have the effect of negating the spirit and basis of the original motion.  In responding to the concerns highlighted the Corporate Director of Governance advised that the amendment had been subject to detailed review and on balance was felt to have retained a sufficient element of the original motion to avoid entirely nullifying it.  On this basis the amendment had been cleared to proceed for consideration.

In expressing concern at the negative effect of the amendment and precedent it was felt this approach would set moving forward, the Conservative Group advised the Mayor they were no longer minded to move the motion and would instead be seeking to withdraw it from consideration at the meeting.

With the Labour Group initially indicating they were minded to continue with the debate in order to consider the amendment they had submitted, the Mayor agreed to a brief adjournment of the meeting to enable the respective Groups to seek further constitutional advice from the Corporate Director of Governance.  Having reconvened, following a brief withdrawal of all members of the Conservative Group from the meeting, it was RESOLVED having been put to a vote, in accordance with Standing Order 42(l), to approve withdrawal of the Motion submitted by the Conservative Group from consideration at the meeting.

16.2   2^nd Motion (Liberal Democrats Group) – Protecting, preserving and promoting Parks and Open Spaces in Brent

The Mayor then invited Councillor Georgiou to move the second motion which had been submitted on behalf of the Liberal Democrats Group.  As context for the motion Councillor Georgiou began by highlighting what he felt was the importance in seeking to protect and value all Brent’s parks and open spaces as vital assets to the local community.  This included the need, given approval of the recent planning application relating to a site located along the north-west corner ofBarham Park, to protect parks and open spaces from the potential of development  ...  view the full minutes text for item 16.

At the discretion of the Mayor to consider any urgent business, in accordance with Standing Order 37(r).

No urgent items of business were raised at the meeting.

There were no urgent items of business raised at the meeting so the Mayor, in closing the meeting, thanked all members for their co-operation and support and advised that she looked forward to seeing everyone again in person at the next Full Council which would be on Monday 18 September 2023.