Assembly Calls for Enhanced Funding for London’s Police and Transport Services
The London Assembly has unanimously urged that any additional funding allocated to London, following the Government’s Integrated Settlement scheme, be directed towards the Metropolitan Police Service (Met) and Transport for London (TfL). The Assembly contends that these funds are crucial for maintaining public safety and improving transport infrastructure in the capital.
Support for Crime Reduction Efforts
In a recent motion, the Assembly highlighted the necessity of additional financial support for the Met, emphasising its role in tackling crime and ensuring the safety of Londoners. The Assembly’s member Krupesh Hirani articulated the importance of this funding, recognising the Government’s provisional settlement as a positive development while expressing concerns over uncertainties surrounding other funding sources, particularly business rates.
Details of the Motion
The Assembly noted that the recent local government finance settlement, released on 17 December 2025, marks a substantial increase in funding for the Greater London Authority (GLA). Specifically, London will benefit from an Integrated Settlement amounting to £51.4 million more than initially predicted. This reflects an additional total of up to £138.8 million for the GLA in the 2026-27 budget period, thanks to the Fair Funding Allocation.
Moreover, the Assembly addressed potential increases in police council tax, stating that the maximum increase could be £15 for Band D properties—up from the previously assumed £9.57.
Assembly’s Funding Priorities
The Assembly expressed its appreciation for the Government’s decision to enhance GLA funding. Additionally, they commended the Mayor for maintaining financial support for universal free school meals, the expansion of the Superloop transport service, and the continued availability of the 60+ Oyster card.
Moving forward, the Assembly called on the Mayor to consider allocating any surplus funding towards:
- Strengthening financial resources for the Metropolitan Police to continue its efforts in reducing crime.
- Providing TfL with necessary funding to maintain the transport network effectively, including advancing the project for step-free access at London Underground stations to achieve a target of 50% accessibility by 2030.
Conclusion
This initiative underscores an urgent call for investment in key public services that impact the daily lives of Londoners. With the uncertainty surrounding budgetary allocations, the Assembly’s motion aims to ensure that any additional funding directly benefits the safety and transit efficiency within the capital.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.london.gov.uk/who-we-are/what-london-assembly-does/london-assembly-press-releases/any-additional-funds-mayors-budget-should-be-met-police-and-tfl
