'New GLC' now a step nearer

The two organisations representing London councils moved a step closer to merging this week, writes Lynn Eaton. Such a body would be the closest thing yet to replicating the Greater London Council.

The Association of London Authorities and the London Boroughs Association have set up a Committee of London Authorities to consider the merger.

Since the GLC was abolished in 1986 there has been no pan-London organisation.

The steering committee has six Labour representatives, including ALA chair Toby Harris and LBA chair Mary Walker, and three from the other main parties.

The May local elections gave Labour overall control of 17 of the London boroughs and shifted control of both associations to Labour for the first time.