Agenda item

Following the change in procedure for dealing with Motions agreed as part of the changes to the Constitution at the Annual Council Meeting in May 2024, the debate on motions submitted to Full Council, in accordance with Standing Order 30(k) and 41 will now be undertaken at this stage of the meeting.

 

Members are asked to note:

 

·            The motions submitted for debate 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 12 November 2024 along an amendment submitted by the Conservative Group on the 1^ST Labour Group motion - Item 9.3 on 16 November 2024)

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 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.

 

10.1    1^st Motion (Conservative Group) – Effect of Labour Government budget on residents in Brent

 

The Mayor then invited Councillor Mistry to move the first motion which had been submitted on behalf of the Conservative Group.  Councillor Mistry began by highlighting concerns at what she felt to be the broken promises by the Labour Government in relation to the impact of their most recent budget on working people, pensioners and students.  This included increases in National Insurance, Inheritance Tax and removal of Winter Fuel Allowance payments based on what were felt to unsubstantiated claims regarding the £22 fiscal billion black hole the Chancellor had claimed to have inherited.  Despite the time available for them to plan when in Opposition, it was felt the budget had exposed traditional Labour rhetoric in seeking to increase public spending and taxes impacting on economic growth, families, business and those more vulnerable such as the elderly.  Particular concerns were highlighted in relation to the impact of the increase in National Insurance contributions across sectors such as social care and also in relation to the impact on the farming sector and food production as a result of the change in Inheritance Tax rules and anti-business regulation affecting the flexible labour market.

 

Asa result of the concerns expressed and outlined within the motion, Councillor Mistry ended by calling on the Leader of the Council to write to Sir Keir Starmer in seeking restoration of the Winter fuel supplement and reverse of the NI increases in recognition of the impact on Brent residents.

 

The Mayor thanked Councillor Mistry for moving the motion before inviting other members to speak, with the following contributions received.

 

Councillor Maurice, speaking in support of the motion, also highlighted how he felt the Labour Government had ignored the wishes of the electorate and broken their manifesto promises given the way in which the recent budget had impacted on families and working people and was anti-business.  Concern was also expressed regarding the imposition of VAT on private school fees and impact this would have on those from less wealthy backgrounds in seeking to access the sector.  Given the impacts outlined in relation to the budget, he felt these demonstrated the reality of a Labour Government and price that would be paid by residents across Brent as a result.

 

Speaking in opposition to the motion, Councillor Kelcher felt there was a need to recognise the difficult nature of the decisions faced by Labour in seeking to balance the financial position inherited from the previous Conservative Government.  Highlighting what he felt were contradictions in the position adopted by the Conservative Group within their motion, including on tuition fees, and seeking to place into context those that would actually be impacted by the change in Inheritance Tax, Councillor Kelcher outlined the need for a consistent approach in the opposition challenges.  In contrast he felt the fiscal policies adopted by the Labour Government had sought to achieve a credible balance in seeking to fund much needed improvements in public services, including health, with the need to deliver a balanced budget and address the significant budgetary gap they had inherited.

 

In formally responding to motion, Councillor Mili Patel spoke next highlighting what she felt had already been the differences made by the Labour Government for people across Brent.  In contrast to the last budgets delivered by the previous Conservative Government she felt the Chancellors latest budget had adopted a different approach aimed at addressing the inherited gap in public finances and economic health of the country over the longer term.  Whilst recognising the challenges to be addressed, the approach towards delivering longer term growth had also been acknowledged by the Office for Budget Responsibility.  As specific examples of the issues the budget was seeking to address, Councillor Mili Patel highlighted how the proposals had been designed to tackle a decade of real-term pay cuts in the public sector, reform pensions and increase investment in high-potential British firms, provide a cash injection for the NHS as well as new capital investment for large scale infrastructure projects.  In concluding, it was therefore felt the Conservative motion should be seeking to apologise for their previous government’s mismanagement of the economy and inability to deliver the change required rather than criticising the efforts being made to address the issues highlighted.  On this basis, it was confirmed the Labour Group would be opposing the motion.

 

As a final contribution, Councillor Lorber felt it was also important to recognise the impact which the increase in Council Tax agreed by the Labour Administration was having on local residents in Brent and need for urgent reform of the local government funding regime.  Given the Labour Government’s criticism of the previous Conservative Government’s approach towards local government funding when in opposition, he hoped the shift in burden for the funding of essential public services, including Adult Social Care, on to Council Tax payers was addressed and not continued by the new Government.  This included the need for a fair funding settlement that addressed the significant demand led pressures identified and recognised the impact on local taxpayers.

 

As there were no other members who had indicated they wished to speak the Mayor then invited Councillor Mistry to exercise her right of reply.  In summing up, Councillor Mistry expressed concern regarding the Chancellor’s and Labour Government’s economic credentials given the approach set out within their budget and as such commended the motion to members for support.

 

Having thanked all members for their contributions, the Mayor then moved on to put the motion to a vote which was declared LOST.

 

It was therefore RESOLVED to reject the following motion:

 

“Effect of Labour Government Budget on residents in Brent

 

On the day Sir Keir Starmer took office he said he wanted to restore trust to British politics “with actions, not words” but he chose to break Labour’s manifesto promises, hit working people and thrown pensioners into the cold, University tuition fees are going up 3.1%.

 

The October Labour Budget is littered with broken promises. We Conservatives warned that Labour would tax, borrow and spend far beyond what they told the country.  As at September 2024 inflation was 1.7% down from 2.2% in the previous month, reflecting the sound state of the economy passed over by the Conservative Government.  We left Labour with inflation back on target, interest rates falling, the fastest growing economy in the G7 with four million more people into work.

 

You can already see the Chancellor making excuses about their economic inheritance and the unsubstantiated basis of the fiscal £22 billion black hole they claim to have inherited. The Budget fiscal rules changed, borrowing increased by £70billion, inflation busting handouts for trade unions, Britain’s poorest pensioners squeezed, welfare spending out of control and inflation busting tax rises.

 

This Council Notes:

 

·             The harsh reality under Labour with National Insurance Up, Inheritance tax Up, Energy taxes Up, Businesses rates Up, First time buyer stamp duty Up and Tax on Pensions Up.

 

·             When Covid hit, the Conservative Government took responsible decisions and spent an estimated £400 billion to protect British people and businesses from the impact of Covid. They brought in Furlough and provided funding to the NHS and delivered the fastest vaccine roll out in the world. 

 

This Council recognises:

 

·             The need to support residents through the crises by creating a package of support for anyone facing hardship.

 

·             That small business owners in Brent will be hit hard with higher NI contributions and a rise in national minimum wage.

 

·             Whilst taxes impacting on Brent residents are going up, including young couples saving to buy their first home families wanting to pass on their home or business to their children, parents sacrificing to give their kids the best start in life, , the only thing that’s going down is what’s left in people’s pockets.

 

·             This Budget laid bare that Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves are following the same old Labour rhetoric: higher public spending, sky-rocket taxes in our country’s history and record-high borrowing. This will deliver a hammer blow for Brent families and pensioners’ pockets.

 

·             The Labour Party has no experience of business and enterprise. Relentlessly talking down our economy. Delivering a tidal wave of anti-business regulations and destroying our flexible labour market. It is the classic Labour agenda: higher taxes, higher borrowing; no plan for growth and working people of Brent will pay the price.

 

This Council, therefore, resolves to request that  the Leader of the Council write to Sir Kier Starmer seeking a restoration of the Winter fuel supplement and reverse of the NI increases.”

 

10.2    2^nd Motion (Liberal Democrats Group) – Time to get tough on chewing tobacco

 

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 its focus on addressing a local issue of concern to many residents given the impact that the use of chewing tobacco was having, particularly in the Wembley, Sudbury and Kingsbury area.  The unsightly nature of the stains left on streets resulting from the use of chewing tobacco (often referred to as paan) was highlighted as a source of continual complaint by residents leading to feelings that the areas worst affected were being neglected with reference also made to the associated public health impact.

 

Given the concerns identified, and associated impact in relation to public health and what were felt to be declining standards of cleanliness across the borough, Councillor Georgiou felt the attempts made to tackle the problem had failed with no consistent approach identified in relation to engaging with local communities in terms of the harmful impact of chewing tobacco from both an environmental and public health perspective.  As a result, he advised the motion was calling on the Council to provide the necessary resources required to tackle the issue, including the targeting of specific hotspots and delivery of a more joined up community led public health approach.  On this basis, Councillor Georgiou commended the motion to Council.

 

In responding to the motion, Councillor Krupa Sheth took the opportunity to thank Councillor Georgiou for raising what was recognised as an important issue and to outline the Council’s commitment to addressing the problem given the considerable implications for both community health and public spaces across Brent.  In responding to the concerns regarding previous campaigns run by the Council these were felt to have delivered substantial results in terms of not only significantly enhancing public awareness, but also through the issuing of fines and in terms of visibly improving street cleanliness in targeted areas such as Wembley, Ealing Road, and Sudbury.  The campaigns undertaken had been driven by ongoing community engagement, with key achievements highlighted as including the introduction of high-visibility anti spitting stencils on streets supported by a social media and publicity campaign which had achieved 90% household reach in key areas, educating residents on the health and environmental impacts of chewing tobacco and increasing awareness around anti-spitting rules leading to a reduction in stains identified through local inspections.  This proactive approach had received positive support from residents and businesses and been supported by ongoing work with enforcement teams involving the use of Fixed Penalty Notices for continued offenders.  The need for further co-ordinated action had, however, also been recognised with the Council having written to the previous Conservative Secretary of State for Health outlining the need for new government legislation and support on this issue.  As no response had been received to the initial approach, this was now being followed up with the new Labour government supported locally by an increase in enforcement officers, in line with the Council’s “Don’t Mess with Brent” strategy, a programme of sensitive engagement with hard-to-reach groups and young people highlighting the dangerous public health implications of using Paan and continuing collaboration with organisations like the Paan Action Network to raise awareness.  In concluding, Councillor Krupa Sheth once again outlined the Council’s commitment in seeking to address and reduce paan spitting as part of the approach towards making the borough cleaner, safer and healthier.  Given the commitment outlined and work already being undertaken she advised the Labour Group would therefore not be supporting the motion.

 

Councillor Hirani spoke next in support of the motion, echoing the sentiment and concerns expressed by Councillor Georgiou regarding the impact and extent of the problem particularly across Kingsbury and Kenton.  Given the unsightly impact created by the spitting of chewing tobacco and associated costs to the borough in terms of maintaining street cleanliness and also in relation to public health she ended by highlighting what she felt was a need for the Labour Administration to take responsibility for the action required to clean up the mess and ensure the concerns highlighted were addressed on a longer term basis.

 

As a final contribution, Councillor Lorber also spoke in support of the motion to highlight concerns regarding the current limited effectiveness of the enforcement approach, given the current hours of operation accompanied by the limited resources available within the Safer Neighbourhood Teams.  In highlighting the specific impact of these issues across Sudbury and commending the efforts being made by local resident organisations to maintain street cleanliness, Councillor Lorber supported the call within the motion for more targeted enforcement action across the areas worse effected backed up by a meaningful programme of engagement and outreach within those communities where the use of chewing tobacco was most prevalent.

 

As there were no other members who had indicated they wished to speak the Mayor then invited Councillor Georgiou to exercise his right of reply.  In summing up Councillor Georgiou, having noted the response from Councillor Krupa Sheth, felt it important to highlight the reality of the situation being experienced across those parts of the borough worst affected using the condition of Wembley High Road as an example.  Given that it was felt the campaigns and action taken to date to address the concerns highlighted had been largely ineffective he advised the motion was seeking to encourage a more targeted campaign of action and programme of outreach within relevant communities supported by a task group consisting of local councillors, key officers and members of the local community tasked with devising a strategy to combat chewing tobacco that involved greater enforcement action, a public health approach and lobbying for greater regulation in terms of supply by government, which he hoped all members would support.

 

Having thanked all members for their contributions, the Mayor then moved on to put the motion to a vote which was declared LOST.

 

It was therefore RESOLVED to reject the following motion:

 

“Time to get tough on chewing tobacco.

 

Brent Council are failing miserably to deal with the scourge of chewing tobacco (often referred to as paan) across our borough, particularly in the Wembley area. The problem of chewing tobacco has gotten far worse in recent years, which has led to the area looking dirtier than ever.

 

Red spitting stains across the area from Wembley High Road, Sudbury Town centre, Ealing Road to residential streets across this part of Brent are unsightly and have resulted in residents feeling that their area is being neglected and forgotten by Brent Council.

 

Declining cleanliness and standards on local roads, in part caused by growing levels of chewing tobacco has led to other issues, including increasing levels of rubbish dumping and fly tipping, street drinking (despite the boroughwide PSPO) and other forms of anti-social behaviour. This is cumulatively having a hugely negative impact on residents who deserve much better.

 

The Council’s current strategy (if there even is a coherent one!) to deal with the issue does not go far enough. Campaigns over the years, fronted by Members of the Cabinet, have been a total failure. They have done very little to truly engage with the community, and beyond a few pictures in the Brent Magazine, there has not been consistent messaging about the harms of chewing tobacco and the impact it has in our area and on users.

 

The ineffective anti-paan stencils that were sprayed in certain locations on Wembley High Road, Ealing Road, have had no impact. In fact, just days after they were put down, some even had red spit stains on them!

 

Chewing tobacco not only causes our area to look filthy, but the impact on the user is significant too. More needs to be made of the considerable health implications of chewing and spitting tobacco. According to the NHS website, paan, a form of tobacco, is both addictive and can lead to the user developing mouth cancer and oesophageal (food pipe) cancer, as well as having a terrible impact on general oral/ dental health. A public health approach, that is effectively targeted is long overdue to ensure users are fully aware of the effects of this habit with the cost burden this habit places on the NHS also highlighted.

 

It is time that Brent Council got to grips with the issue of chewing tobacco in our borough – before even more damage is done to our area and residents.

 

The Council resolves to:

 

·             Take the issue of chewing tobacco far more seriously and recognise the need to pursue targeted anti-chewing tobacco campaigns that reach members of the community who engage in this addictive habit.

 

·             Immediately convene a special task group consisting of local councillors, Brent Council Officers, Enforcement teams and key members of the community, to devise a strategy to combat chewing tobacco that involves greater enforcement action, a public health approach and seeking to limit the supply.

 

·             Urge the Labour Government to bring forward legislation that seeks to ban harmful chewing tobacco on health and environmental grounds.”

 

10.3    3^rd Motion (Labour Group) – Brent Twinning with Nablus

 

Prior to considering the motion, the Mayor took the opportunity to remind everyone present at the meeting that one of the things he was most proud about as Mayor was the diverse nature of the borough and peaceful relationships that existed between its many different communities enabling them to live side by side in peace and harmony.  In focussing on the need to continue encouraging and fostering strong community cohesion he asked members to ensure these efforts were maintained and supported during the conduct of the debate on the motion due to be considered for which he thanked everyone in advance.

 

Following the statement made by the Mayor and prior to the motion being formally moved, Councillor Georgiou raised a Point of Order highlighting what he felt to be the divisive nature of the first Labour Group motion which had been put forward for debate.  Given the important role councillors played in seeking to maintain and encourage community cohesion within their local communities he queried the basis on which the motion and subsequent amendment submitted by the Conservative Group had been accepted for debate and called for both to be withdrawn.

 

In response Debra Norman (as Corporate Director of Law & Governance) advised that the motion and subsequent amendment received had both been assessed as meeting the relevant legal and constitutional requirements enabling them to have been submitted for debate and to remain on the agenda.  At this stage, the action being sought within the motion and amendment was to explore the potential twinning opportunities identified with a further report to be provided at a future Council meeting once these had been assessed against the Council’s overall approach towards twinning and necessary equality impact assessment.

 

Following advice from the Corporate Director Law & Governance, a further comment raised by Councillor Lorber in relation to the basis of the statement made by the Mayor preceding consideration of the motion, was ruled out as a Point of Order.

 

Councillor Afzal was then invited to introduce the motion, which he felt provided a further opportunity for the Council to demonstrate the moral and ethical principles on which it stood including justice, freedom and solidarity with those marginalised or most in need.  In recommending Nablus for consideration as an appropriate twinning opportunity for the borough, given its status as one of the oldest cities in the world with a long and rich history of culture, diversity and dynamism, it was felt the proposal would also reflect Brent’s long history of internationalism.  The proposal had also been designed to recognise that Brent was currently home to the second highest Arab diaspora in England and Wales, which included a significant number of residents of Palestinian heritage.  The potential twinning arrangement was therefore also seen as an opportunity to enhance bonds and improve relations between communities through a process of collaboration and shared learning focussed on the respective cultures, history, traditions and experiences amongst communities living in Nablus and Brent.  In recognising the links already being established with organisations across Brent, he advised the motion sought to support the establishment of a “Brent-Nablus Twinning Project” in order to explore the potential of a formal twinning arrangement through a process of community engagement, recognising the wider potential benefits a successful twinning relationship would also be able to promote in terms of educational collaboration, sport and heritage preservation.  On this basis, Councillor Afzal advised he was honoured to have been able to move the motion with the potential twinning arrangement seeking to create a long-term connection between local communities, cultural organisations and leaders as a means of creating unity and expressing solidarity across both twinned regions.

 

The Mayor thanked Councillor Afzal for moving the motion and then drew members attention to an amendment submitted by Councillor Maurice on behalf of the Conservative Group, which had been circulated in advance of the meeting.

 

In moving the amendment, Councillor Maurice (having congratulated Councillor Hack on his appointment as Deputy Mayor and thanked the Mayor for his comments relating to the conduct of the debate at the start of the item) took the opportunity to remind members that the Council already had a long standing twinning relationship with South Dublin.  In welcoming the diverse nature and mix of multi-cultural communities living within Brent, he advised that the amendment being moved also sought to recognise the links between Brent and various communities and faiths across Israel.  As such, it was felt any opportunities being explored for a twinning arrangement in the region should be undertaken on a cross party basis and involve a process of community engagement including the potential to encourage collaboration with Israeli’s as well as Arabs, including Palestinians.  The amendment therefore suggested Ramla as an alternative suitable location for consideration as a twinning opportunity, given its location, cultural mix and historical significance at the crossroads of an ancient route between Jaffa and Jerusalem and between Damascus and Cairo and which it was felt would better reflect the diverse mix of communities across of Brent.  The amendment moved by Councillor Maurice was therefore as follows:

 

To add the wording underlined and delete the wording indicated:

 

“Brent Town Twinning with Nablus

 

This Council notes:

 

·             That Brent currently has a single twinning relationship, that with South Dublin, established in 1997, at a time when Brent had the largest Irish-born population in mainland Britain.

 

·             That Brent currently has the second highest Arab diaspora in England and Wales, within which there is a significant number of residents of Palestinian heritage. a rich and diverse, multi-cultured community including Christians, Catholics, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Jains and Sikhs amongst others.

 

·             That like Brent, Nablus in Palestine – as one of the oldest cities in the world – Israel has a long and rich history of culture, diversity and dynamism, ranging from historical architecture, a lively economy and a youthful population.

 

·             That Brent has a long history of internationalism, including conferring on Nelson Mandela the Freedom of the Borough.

 

·             That a growing number of community and charitable organisations, including Brent Trades Union Council, Brent NEU and Brent Friends of Palestine have developed productive relations with Palestinian organisations and diaspora, further strengthening bonds to the city of Nablus. have developed ties and relationships with Israel which include Jews, Arabs, Bedouins and Christians alike.

 

·             That through the joint work of Brent Trades Union Council, Brent NEU and of Brent and Harrow PSC, CADFA and the Palestinian Forum in Britain, opportunities have been provided to young Palestinians to meet Brent young people, Councillors and MPs, and share and develop a bond over their experiences in education, sports and culture. Opportunities for visits to Palestine by young Brent residents are being planned.  That this Council should provide an opportunity for all the young people in Brent to visit and work with Israeli’s and Arabs including Palestinians.

 

·             That Ramla could be considered as a suitable town in Israel to twin with.  Ramla is between Tel-Aviv And Jerusalem and was the crossroads of the ancient route between Jaffa and Jerusalem and between Damascus and Cairo.

 

·             That the establishment of the “Brent-Nablus Twinning Project” organisation provides an opportunity for Brent to explore the potential of a formal twinning arrangement with Nablus through community engagement.

 

·             That community organisations and official representatives in Nablus Israeli towns and cities would welcome have shown a desire to develop a more formal arrangement of partnership with Brent. and have communicated this desire with their partners in Brent, leading to this proposal.

 

This Council believes:

 

·             Twinning enhances bonds and improves relations between communities, creating friendships through what we have in common, as well as learning from other cultures, traditions and experiences.

 

·             Twinning allows avenues for growth through togetherness, improving understanding and ability to tackle issues through collaboration, knowledge and skill shares.

 

·             A successful twinning relationship would promote initiatives like educational collaborations, sports programmes, and heritage preservation workshops, creating long-term connections between residents and institutions and engages with local communities, cultural organisations, and leaders in both twinned regions to support the establishment of the partnership.

 

This Council resolves to:

 

·             Consider a formal twinning agreement between Brent and a city or town in Israel which has a mixture of Arab and Jewish citizens the city of Nablus, which sits under the governance of the Palestinian National Authority, and receive a report considering the proposal at a future council meeting.

 

·             Explore immediate steps to foster connections, such as cultural exchange programmes, student and school collaborations, and shared community projects, to create a foundation for future growth.

 

·             Engage with the “Brent-Nablus Twinning Project” organisation to develop a framework for the potential twinning, whilst engaging with local communities, cultural organisations and leaders in both Brent and Nablus to support the establishment of this partnership.

 

·             Engage with the diverse communities living in Brent, so that everyone can have a say in where we should consider twinning. Any process must be with cross party engagement and support to establish a partnership with suggested towns and cities.

 

·             That Brent should establish a “Brent-Ramla Twinning Project” to provide an opportunity for Brent to explore the potential of a formal twinning arrangement with Ramla through community engagement.”

 

The Mayor thanked Councillor Maurice for moving the amendment and then opened the debate for contributions from other members in relation to both the original motion and amendment.

 

Councillor Nerva, having also congratulated Councillor Hack on his appointment as Deputy Mayor, opened the debate by echoing the Mayor’s earlier sentiments in valuing the diverse nature of Brent as a borough and importance of the Council’s role in seeking to promote community cohesion.  He therefore felt any proposal in relation to twinning needed to reflect this approach and Council’s values in terms of communities being able to move Forward Together rather than in conflict.  The need was also highlighted to ensure that any consideration towards extending the current twinning arrangements was based on a clear policy and set of criteria with the necessary resources also having been identified to ensure the process was properly managed.  In concluding, Councillor Neva felt that at this stage in the process it was more important to focus on ways in which Brent could best work to support local communities with links across both Israel and Palestine in seeking a viable solution to the current conflict in the region rather than it being about the identification of specific locations, recognising the positive cases made in support of both alternatives options.

 

Councillor Grahl then spoke in support of the original motion, highlighting the links already being established with schools in Palestine which had included a delegation visiting Brent supported by local charities and organisations.  Whilst it was pointed out that for many, events in the Middle East might seem to have little impact on Brent, a large number of looked after children in the borough had actually originated from the region with the UN Secretary General having also recognised the disproportionate effect of global conflicts on children, including those in Gaza, Syria and Afghanistan.  In highlighting the devastating impact these conflicts had not only in terms of the number of civilians (including children) lost but also on the mental health of those survivors and refugees Councillor Grahl ended by outlining the importance in Brent’s role as a safe haven for those (including children) seeking refugee from conflict.

 

As a final contribution Councillor Mitchell, also speaking in support of the original motion, highlighted the opportunity she felt the proposed twinning arrangement with Nablus would have to extend the opportunities to share learning and cultural experiences in a way that recognised the varied heritage and lived experiences (including climate change) and interconnectivity between communities across both regions whilst also supporting the values of justice and equity.

 

At this stage, the Mayor advised that the time limit allocated for debate on the motion had been reached.  In drawing the debate to a close, he therefore invited Councillor Afzal (as mover of the original motion) followed by Councillor Maurice (as mover of the amended) to exercise their right of reply.

 

In exercising his right of reply Councillor Afzal, thanked those who had spoken in support along with other colleagues and members of the local community for their assistance in bringing the motion forward.  Highlighting the community backed nature of the proposal he hoped all members would be willing to support the motion as a means of reflecting the values which Brent, as borough, was recognised to stand for.

 

Councillor Maurice in closing the debate and exercising his right of reply on the amendment outlined what he felt to be the divisive nature of the original motion given the way it had failed to reflect the multi-cultural and diverse mix of communities and strength of community cohesion across the borough.  On this basis he advised that the Conservative Group would be supporting the amendment rather than original motion which had been moved.

 

Having thanked councillors for their contributions, the Mayor then moved to the vote on the motion starting with the amendment moved by the Conservative Group. The amendment, as set out above, was then put to the vote and declared LOST.

 

The Mayor then moved on to put the substantive motion, as originally moved and set out below, to a vote which was declared CARRIED.

 

It was therefore RESOLVED to approve the following motion:

 

“Brent Twinning with Nablus

 

This Council notes:

 

·             That Brent currently has a single twinning relationship, that with South Dublin, established in 1997, at a time when Brent had the largest Irish-born population in mainland Britain.

 

·             That Brent currently has the second highest Arab diaspora in England and Wales, within which there is a significant number of residents of Palestinian heritage.

 

·             That like Brent, Nablus in Palestine – as one of the oldest cities in the world – has a long and rich history of culture, diversity and dynamism, ranging from historical architecture, a lively economy and a youthful population.

 

·             That Brent has a long history of internationalism, including conferring on Nelson Mandela the Freedom of the Borough.

 

·             That a growing number of community and charitable organisations, including Brent Trades Union Council, Brent NEU and Brent Friends of Palestine have developed productive relations with Palestinian organisations and diaspora, further strengthening bonds to the city of Nablus.

 

·             That through the joint work of Brent Trades Union Council, Brent NEU and of Brent and Harrow PSC, CADFA and the Palestinian Forum in Britain, opportunities have been provided to young Palestinians to meet Brent young people, Councillors and MPs, and share and develop a bond over their experiences in education, sports and culture. Opportunities for visits to Palestine by young Brent residents are being planned.

 

·             That the establishment of the “Brent-Nablus Twinning Project” organisation provides an opportunity for Brent to explore the potential of a formal twinning arrangement with Nablus through community engagement.

 

·             That community organisations and official representatives in Nablus have shown a desire to develop a more formal arrangement of partnership with Brent and have communicated this desire with their partners in Brent, leading to this proposal.

 

This Council believes:

 

·             Twinning enhances bonds and improves relations between communities, creating friendships through what we have in common, as well as learning from other cultures, traditions and experiences.

 

·             Twinning allows avenues for growth through togetherness, improving understanding and ability to tackle issues through collaboration, knowledge and skill shares.

 

·             A successful twinning relationship would promote initiatives like educational collaborations, sports programmes, and heritage preservation workshops, creating long-term connections between residents and institutions and engages with local communities, cultural organisations, and leaders in both twinned regions to support the establishment of the partnership.

 

This Council resolves to:

 

·             Consider a formal twinning agreement between Brent and the city of Nablus, which sits under the governance of the Palestinian National Authority, and receive a report considering the proposal at a future council meeting.

 

·             Explore immediate steps to foster connections, such as cultural exchange programmes, student and school collaborations, and shared community projects, to create a foundation for future growth.

 

·             Engage with the “Brent-Nablus Twinning Project” organisation to develop a framework for the potential twinning, whilst engaging with local communities, cultural organisations and leaders in both Brent and Nablus to support the establishment of this partnership.”

 

10.4    4^th Motion (Labour Group) – Brent’s commitment to care experienced people

 

The Mayor then invited Councillor Moeen to move the second and final motion submitted by the Labour Group.  Councillor Moeen began by highlighting her pride in being able to move the motion, given they way it reflected Brent’s commitment to care experienced people across the borough.  In recognising their levels of resilience, Councillor Moeen outlined how the motion was also designed to highlight the significant challenges faced by many care leavers, especially as they transitioned into work and independent housing.  With systemic failures often meaning care leavers were more likely to experience homelessness, poor mental health, and involvement in the criminal justice system the motion supported the need for action to be taken (recognising the role of local authorities as a Corporate Parent) to address the concerns highlighted.  In welcoming and supporting the longstanding commitment in Brent towards safeguarding care leavers Councillor Moeen felt it important to recognise the essential support already being provided in terms of housing, finance and personal development with the next step outlined within the motion, aimed at enshrining this approach in every decision taken as a council through support of the Care and Support Alliance’s ‘Show Us You Care’ campaign, Council becoming a signatory of the Kinship Care Alliance manifesto and care experience being classified as a protected characteristic providing a voice to those who may not otherwise have had one.

 

In commending the renewed Care Leaver Local Offer which had also been introduced by the Council (in conjunction with care leavers), Councillor Moeen hoped all members would support the motion in seeking to ensure all children and young people were provided with the best start in life.

 

The Mayor thanked Councillor Moeen for moving the motion before inviting other members to speak, with the following contributions received.

 

Having congratulated Councillor Hack on his appointment as Deputy Mayor, Councillor Dixon opened the debate by welcoming the focus on the challenges faced by so many care leavers at the start of their life and way these could impact on them moving forward as they entered adult life with children being placed into care some of the most vulnerable in society.  As a result, Councillor Dixon highlighted the importance, given her professional experience working in the criminal justice system, of the support being made available for those transitioning from care in being able to move forward and thrive and therefore ended by commending the motion which she advised she was pleased to support.

 

Councillor Gbajumo also spoke in full support of the motion welcoming what she felt was the Council's demonstrable commitment to youth support provision and positive feedback provided by care leavers through the Corporate Parenting Committee in relation to Council backed programmes of support.  Concern was, however, also expressed at the need to avoid discrimination and stigmatisation of those placed in care.  As an example, reference was made to the tone of opposition expressed at the conversion of a local property into a residential care facility for children which had been subject to a call-in by members of the Conservative Group. In concluding, Councillor Gbajumo outlined her commitment and support for the stance being taken by the Labour Administration in seeking to eliminate discriminatory and safeguard the interests of care-experienced young people.

 

Formally responding to the motion, Councillor Grahl also expressed support for the action being sought which she felt would underscore Brent’s unwavering commitment to care experienced children and young people.  In recognising the significant challenges often faced by care leavers in relation to housing, health, education, employment, or within the criminal justice system the responsibility and role of the Council as a Corporate Parent was highlighted as a crucial element in ensuring that children and young people who had faced disrupted family experiences received the support needed to lead fulfilling, healthy lives and reach their full potential with the approach also supported in the Council seeking to become a fully accredited UNICEF Child Friendly community.  In expanding on this approach, Councillor Grahl referred to the renewed Care Leaver Local Offer, alongside adoption of the Care Leavers Charter  which were both felt to represent a significant steps forward not only in terms of enhancing existing support but also with the introduction of key resources such as free internet access for those claiming Universal Credit, access to the Digital Resident Support Fund for essential devices, and mentorship for skills such as CV writing and tenancy management with access also available to a rent deposit scheme and financial support to assist in purchasing other essential items for their first homes.  The adoption of care experience as a protected characteristic was also supported as a key step for Brent in formally supporting the Children and Young People Alliance’s ‘Show Us You Care’ campaign which it was hoped the Government would also recognise as part of their review of children’s social care and in advocating for a sustainable, long-term funding settlement to support these efforts.  In commending the motion to members, the opportunity was also taken to support Brent seeking to become a signatory of the Kinship Care Alliance manifesto, given the support provided to residents who step up to care for children when their parents were unable to do so.

 

As a final contribution Councillor Hirani, also speaking in her capacity as a member of the Corporate Parenting Committee, expressed support for the motion and highlighted what she felt was the need to seek additional financial support as part of the package of measures identified for care leavers being able to access public transport.

 

As the time limit for debate had been reached, the Mayor then invited Councillor Moeen to exercise her right of reply.  In summing up, Councillor Moeen thanked members for the cross-party support expressed in support of the motion taking the opportunity, at the same time, to acknowledge and thank the care experienced young adults who were attending the meeting to follow the debate.

 

Having thanked all members for their contributions, the Mayor then moved to put the motion to a vote which was declared CARRIED.

 

It was therefore unanimously RESOLVED to approve the following motion:

 

“Brent’s commitment to care experienced people

 

Brent Council notes:

 

·             According to the Local Government Association, English councils need £2.7bn more in funding for children’s social care by 2025.

 

·             Despite the resilience of many care experienced people, they often face challenges, discrimination and stigma across housing, health, education, relationships employment, and in the criminal justice system.

 

·             As corporate parents, we have a special responsibility to make sure that children and young people who may have had disrupted experiences of family life get the support they need to live the happiest and healthiest lives possible, so that they reach their potential.

 

·             The positive work of Brent’s Corporate Parenting Board in improving the lives and experiences of our children looked after and care leavers, supported by the voices and lived experiences of our children and young people, working in partnership to embed a corporate parenting culture within Brent.

 

·             Our renewed Care Leaver Local Offer and adoption of the Care Leavers Charter, which, alongside existing support with education, housing, and employment, includes:

 

o      Free internet access for those claiming universal credit

o      Access to the Digital Resident Support Fund for a device

o      Support from mentors with things like writing a CV, handling tenancy documents

o      Access to a rent deposit scheme

o      Up to £3,250 to purchase essentials for their first home

 

·             The Public Sector Equality Duty requires public bodies, such as councils, to eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment, and victimisation of people with protected characteristics.

 

Brent Council believes that:

 

·             Brent’s children and young people deserve the best start in life.

 

·             The voices, needs, priorities and rights of children and young people should be at the heart of everything we do, informing our work in becoming a fully accredited UNICEF Child Friendly community. Ensuring experience of care is a protected characteristic in our work as a council is crucial to this.

 

·             Care experienced people are a disadvantaged group who face challenges and discrimination, and Brent has a duty to put the needs of disadvantaged people at the heart of decision-making.

 

·             Key council policies and changes in policy should be assessed through Equality Impact Assessments to determine the impact of changes on people with care experience.

 

Brent Council resolves:

 

·             To formally support the CSA’s Show Us You Care campaign, and write to Government calling for care experience to be made a protected characteristic as part of the Government’s review of children’s social care and for a sustainable, long term funding settlement for Children Social Care.

 

·             To become a signatory of the Kinship Care Alliance manifesto, supporting residents who step up, often during an unexpected crisis, to care for a child when their parents aren’t able to.”