I will be writing to Mayor Khan about the Metropolitan Police being placed in special measures by HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS). I am greatly concerned about the trust in public policing following a series of high-profile events. I will be reiterating concerns about poor response times to both immediate and severe calls. This follows the mayor’s consultation upon his Police and Crime Plan 2021-2025, in which I highlighted that there was a growing perception that the Met does not focus upon the things that matter and neighbourhood crime in particular. The mayor will be outlining his plan to address the issues raised by HMICFRS which are fundamental to ensuring the safety of our communities and the community’s confidence within the Met.

Residents will also be aware that I am opposing the mayor’s proposals to expand the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) London-wide. Although I welcome the attention focussed on reducing air pollution, this increase would unnecessarily hit residents’ pockets at a time when the cost of living is increasing and be detrimental to businesses in Havering. Although I am calling for residents to share their views with me, I hope Recorder readers will be taking part in Transport for London’s consultation on this. It is important for the mayor to be made aware of outer-Londoner’s concerns about this damaging policy.

We are all facing rising good and energy costs with the rise of inflation from the pandemic and Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. I know this will be an exceptionally hard time for many, so I welcome the government’s announcements on a wide range of support to help households. This includes an increase in the national insurance threshold which will save the average employee over £330 a year. The National Living and Minimum Wage rates have also increased and the government has reduced the taper on Universal Credit. Households on means-tested benefits, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit and Tax Credits, will also receive a payment of £650 this year in two instalments. This will be on top of the £400 discount on energy bills for every household via the Energy Bills Support Scheme. Individuals on disability benefits will also receive a one-off £150 payment in September. For all the details, please see the government’s factsheet on what help you can get - Cost of Living Support – Get government support to help with the cost of living