Council - Wednesday 25 March 2026, 7:00pm - Tower Hamlets Council webcasts

Council
Wednesday, 25th March 2026 at 7:00pm 

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Share this agenda point
  1. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  2. Mr Stephen Halsey
  3. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  4. Mr Stephen Halsey
  5. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  6. Mr Stephen Halsey
  7. Cllr Marc Francis
  8. Cllr Abdal Ullah
  9. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  10. Mr Stephen Halsey
  11. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  12. Mr Stephen Halsey
  13. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  14. Mr Stephen Halsey
  15. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  16. Mr Stephen Halsey
  17. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  18. Shupriya Iqbal
  19. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  20. Mr Matthew Mannion
  21. Cllr Maium Talukdar
  22. Mr Matthew Mannion
  23. Cllr Shubo Hussain
  24. Mr Matthew Mannion
  25. Cllr Shubo Hussain
  26. Mr Matthew Mannion
  27. Cllr Shubo Hussain
  28. Mr Matthew Mannion
Share this agenda point
Share this agenda point
Share this agenda point
  1. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
Share this agenda point
  1. Mr Stephen Halsey
  2. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
Share this agenda point
  1. Mr Matthew Mannion
  2. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  3. Public Speaker
  4. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  5. Cllr Ayas Miah
  6. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  7. Cllr Abu Talha Chowdhury
  8. Public Speaker
  9. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  10. Cllr James King
  11. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  12. Cllr James King
  13. Public Speaker
  14. Cllr Ayas Miah
  15. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  16. Public Speaker
  17. Cllr Marc Francis
  18. Cllr Abdal Ullah
  19. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  20. Public Speaker
  21. Cllr Abdul Wahid
  22. Cllr Musthak Ahmed
  23. Public Speaker
  24. Cllr Maisha Begum
  25. Public Speaker
  26. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  27. Cllr Kabir Ahmed
  28. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  29. Public Speaker
  30. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  31. Cllr Kabir Ahmed
  32. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  33. Cllr Kabir Ahmed
  34. Public Speaker
  35. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  36. Cllr Shubo Hussain
  37. Public Speaker
  38. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  39. Cllr Abdul Wahid
  40. Cllr Musthak Ahmed
  41. Cllr Abdul Wahid
  42. Public Speaker
  43. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  44. Cllr Kamrul Hussain
  45. Public Speaker
  46. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  47. Public Speaker
  48. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  49. Public Speaker
  50. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  51. Public Speaker
  52. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  53. Cllr Bellal Uddin
  54. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  55. Public Speaker
  56. Cllr Kabir Ahmed
  57. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  58. Cllr Kabir Ahmed
  59. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  60. Cllr Saied Ahmed
  61. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  62. Public Speaker
  63. Cllr Peter Golds
  64. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  65. Public Speaker
  66. Cllr Mufeedah Bustin
  67. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  68. Public Speaker
  69. Cllr Kabir Ahmed
  70. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  71. Mr Matthew Mannion
  72. Cllr Shubo Hussain
  73. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  74. Mr Matthew Mannion
  75. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  76. Public Speaker
  77. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  78. Cllr Bodrul Choudhury
  79. Public Speaker
  80. Cllr Mufeedah Bustin
  81. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  82. Public Speaker
  83. Cllr Saied Ahmed
  84. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  85. Public Speaker
  86. Cllr Shafi Ahmed
  87. Shupriya Iqbal
  88. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  89. Public Speaker
  90. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  91. Cllr Marc Francis
  92. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  93. Public Speaker
  94. Cllr Gulam Kibria Choudhury
  95. Public Speaker
  96. Cllr Abdi Mohamed
  97. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  98. Public Speaker
  99. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  100. Cllr Abdul Wahid
  101. Cllr Musthak Ahmed
  102. Cllr Abdul Wahid
  103. Public Speaker
  104. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  105. Cllr Kamrul Hussain
  106. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
Share this agenda point
  1. Mayor Lutfur Rahman
  2. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  3. Cllr Sirajul Islam
  4. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  5. Mayor Lutfur Rahman
  6. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
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  1. Cllr Maium Talukdar
  2. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  3. Cllr Saied Ahmed
  4. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  5. Cllr Abu Talha Chowdhury
  6. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  7. Cllr Amy Lee
  8. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  9. Cllr Amy Lee
  10. Cllr Kabir Ahmed
  11. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  12. Cllr Ohid Ahmed
  13. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  14. Cllr Abdal Ullah
  15. Cllr Shafi Ahmed
  16. Cllr Sabina Akhtar
  17. Cllr Shafi Ahmed
  18. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  19. Cllr Peter Golds
  20. Cllr Nathalie Bienfait
  21. Cllr Saied Ahmed
  22. Cllr Maium Talukdar
  23. Shupriya Iqbal
  24. Cllr Maium Talukdar
  25. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  26. Shupriya Iqbal
  27. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  28. Mr Matthew Mannion
  29. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
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  1. Cllr Sirajul Islam
  2. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  3. Cllr Marc Francis
  4. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  5. Cllr Marc Francis
  6. Mr Matthew Mannion
  7. Cllr Marc Francis
  8. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  9. Cllr Maium Talukdar
  10. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  11. Cllr Asma Islam
  12. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  13. Cllr Asma Islam
  14. Shupriya Iqbal
  15. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  16. Cllr Abu Talha Chowdhury
  17. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  18. Cllr James King
  19. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  20. Cllr James King
  21. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  22. Cllr James King
  23. Shupriya Iqbal
  24. Cllr James King
  25. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  26. Cllr Sabina Khan
  27. Cllr Saied Ahmed
  28. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  29. Cllr Abdi Mohamed
  30. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  31. Cllr Sirajul Islam
  32. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  33. Mr Matthew Mannion
  34. Mayor Lutfur Rahman
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  1. Mr Matthew Mannion
  2. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  3. Cllr Maium Talukdar
  4. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  5. Cllr Ahmodur Khan
  6. Cllr Ahmodul Kabir
  7. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  8. Cllr Kabir Ahmed
  9. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  10. Mr Matthew Mannion
  11. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
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  1. Cllr Shafi Ahmed
  2. Cllr Sabina Akhtar
  3. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  4. Cllr Maium Talukdar
  5. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  6. Cllr Sirajul Islam
  7. Cllr Sabina Khan
  8. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  9. Cllr Kabir Ahmed
  10. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  11. Mr Matthew Mannion
  12. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
Share this agenda point
  1. Cllr Saied Ahmed
  2. Cllr Maium Talukdar
  3. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  4. Cllr Saif Uddin Khaled
  5. Shupriya Iqbal
  6. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  7. Mr Matthew Mannion
Share this agenda point
  1. Cllr Maisha Begum
  2. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  3. Cllr Maisha Begum
  4. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  5. Cllr Kabir Hussain
  6. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  7. Mr Matthew Mannion
  8. Cllr Saif Uddin Khaled
  9. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  10. Mr Matthew Mannion
  11. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  12. Cllr Maisha Begum
  13. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  14. Cllr Amy Lee
  15. Cllr Saif Uddin Khaled
  16. Cllr Ayas Miah
  17. Cllr Peter Golds
  18. Cllr Ayas Miah
  19. Cllr Nathalie Bienfait
  20. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  21. Cllr James King
  22. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  23. Cllr James King
  24. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  25. Mr Matthew Mannion
  26. Cllr Suluk Ahmed
  27. Webcast Finished

Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:00:00
Thank you.
Mr Stephen Halsey - 0:01:03
Please be seated.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:01:14
Thank you.
Mr Stephen Halsey - 0:02:08
Good evening and welcome everyone.
My name is Councillor Sili Ahmed.
I am the speaker of the council.
And I will be chairing this last of council for this municipal year.
I would like to thank everyone for attending, including members of the public in the public
gallery.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:02:48
Before we start the meeting, I would like to update you on the activities and speaker
As a speaker of the Council, I have continued to enjoy being part of the many community
events taking place here in Tower Homeless to celebrate and recognise the milestone and
achievement of the groups of the individuals working in the borough.
Just some of these events have included 31 Tower Homeless Squadron Air Cadets Award Ceremony
and the exhibition showcasing artwork of students and teachers from 15 Tower Homeless Secondary
Schools.
I also attended a school careers fair to talk to students, open an Eid Bazaar joint and
international Women's Day celebration for Iftar.
I'm really looking forward to Tower homeless regional final of the Jack Patchy Speak Out
Challenge Tomorrow, where year 10 students from schools across the town will be delivering their speeches.
A highlight of February was the annual Civic Award ceremony.
Each year the speaker hosts this event to recognise people who live, work or study in the borough.
and have been nominated across a number of categories for their activities.
A majority of these people either carry out these works as voluntary volunteers
or go beyond what is expected in their paid jobs, paid roles.
It is truly humbling to see the kindness, generosity, and all -round outstanding contribution
of the people we have amongst our town homeless.
Finally, I was honoured to join the Deputy Mayor and other dignitaries at a Mother's
Language Day, the annual worldwide celebration of language diversity which was held in Al
Tabali Park.
Now before we start, I must remind you that we have important rules to get through our
businesses.
If anyone shouts, anyone shouts out or otherwise disrupts the meeting, I'll be forced to adjourn
and you may not be able to take part, further part in the meeting.
I also remind all the members and the public that if I stand, you must sit down and be
quiet.
Mr Stephen Halsey - 0:06:22
I will now ask the Monitoring Officer to set out our rules and expectations in more details.
Thank you.
Cllr Marc Francis - 0:06:31
Mr Speaker, sorry, just before the Madam Deputy Monitor Officer came in, I was hoping, Mr
Cllr Abdal Ullah - 0:06:39
Speaker, as you are a long -standing friend of our dear brother Mr Dola Babubay, who passed
I want to thank the member of the council
who passed away today, his funeral,
which many of us in this room had the pleasure
of attending.
Before we start the meeting that we could
hold, I could request on behalf of the council
chamber a minute of silence for our
departure brother who was a dear friend to many
of us.
Many of us grew up watching him play
football and be a mentor, a guide to people of
Tower Hammers.
If I could ask you, sir, if you could be kind
enough to allow the people of this chamber
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:07:11
Mr Stephen Halsey - 0:07:14
for your concern, I'm happy to do that.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:07:19
Mr Stephen Halsey - 0:07:22
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:07:23
Can we all please stand for a minute of silence, thank you.
Mr Stephen Halsey - 0:07:33
It's our dear brother, Babal Bayou, we all know him.
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:07:44
Thank you.
Thank you.
Please be seated.
Mr Stephen Halsey - 0:08:42
Good evening, members.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:08:52
Shupriya Iqbal - 0:08:54
Full Council is one of our most important meetings and there is a full agenda.
So to make sure we can manage our business appropriately, I would like to remind members
and the public that you must show courtesy and respect to all speakers.
You must not stand, you must not shout out or otherwise disrupt the meeting.
If you disrupt the meeting, you may be removed.
We are all aware that the local election is due in a few weeks.
That event is not on the agenda item at Council tonight.
I remind all members to remain focused on the business, on the agenda.
Now, discussions of the forthcoming election or campaigning matters is not relevant to
the items before the Council this evening and should not be raised.
This also applies to any members of the public speaking on the petitions on the agenda.
I have recently sent out guidance to all members around pre -election publicity restrictions
and use of Council resources.
Please ensure you fully consider and adhere to the guidance sent out.
I would remind everyone to keep all contributions brief and relevant.
Do not stand or start to speak until you have been called.
To speak through the speaker and do not address comments to other members of the public or
members of the public gallery.
Do not interrupt each other or make comments while other members are speaking and to be
respectful to each other at all times. Do not criticise officers during proceedings
and most importantly if the Speaker, the Chief Executive or I stand, all Members must sit
down and be quiet. Although only used as a last resort, the Speaker
may ask for the removal of any Member or visitor should their behaviour become disruptive.
Also, if any Member has a point of order to make, a reminder that you must start your
by stating which point of the Constitution or the law has been broken.
The Speaker will select Members to speak on items from all sides of the Chamber and in
line with any submitted lists.
He will also look to those indicating during the meeting, but most Agenda items have strict
time limits and so not all those who request may be able to speak.
The Speaker may also look to vary the members we hear from, so not all those who request,
so he may not be able to take the request in the order received.
Please note that supplemental information has been published.
Thank you. I now hand over to the Speaker.
Thank you, Cypria.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:11:45
I will now ask the Corporate Head of Democratic and Governance Services
to take us through the procedure and the admin items at the start of the meeting and note
that I will also later be asking him to conduct any formal votes that we need to undertake.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 0:12:15
Thank you, Mr Speaker, and if it's okay, I'll stay seated so you should have to do
a bit of scribbling on the bits I've got.
Good evening, everyone.
A couple of little bits on procedures just to cheque that we're all okay, we all know
where we are.
So there are a couple of reports that didn't go out with the agenda.
They were published in supplements.
Hopefully people have seen those.
There are copies available.
Mr Speaker will have seen the reasons for urgency and I take it you're happy to accept
those on to the agenda, Mr Speaker?
You're happy to take those?
Yeah.
Yeah.
Okay.
Confirmed.
Thank you very much.
So they are as they set out on the agenda.
There are some forms in front of some of you tonight for related party declarations.
If you've got a form, please make sure you fill it in and hand it to Abdul Razak from
my team at the end.
Seating, hopefully everyone is in the right seats.
The webcast people just asked me to just say if you've moved your name plates, can you
let them know because they'll need to adjust the settings.
Then we had a little bit of discussion as many of you, well I think everyone will be
aware this is the last meeting for the election, some people aren't standing and often when
people aren't standing they like to say a few words just to commemorate that moment.
There's been a little bit of discussion about how we're going to do that and the speaker
is determining in the end that what we're going to do is we're going to do that at the
end of the meeting, so part of the meeting but at the end of the meeting.
So I've got a little list of people that I think want to speak but if I've got it wrong
If anyone else wants to be added to the list, if you're not standing for election.
So I've got Councillors Oudamad, Seyford and Kaled, Natalie Bienfay, Amy Lee, Maisha Begum,
James King.
Is that right?
Do they all want to speak?
Is there anyone else who wants to speak who isn't standing?
I'll take that as correct, but if anyone changes their mind then do let us know when we get
to the end.
Oh, Ayas Meer.
Yes, of course you did tell me.
Apologies.
And then just a last one which I've just seen a note that the opposition have asked that
we change, Mr Speaker, how we do reminders for speeches.
They've asked not to have 30 second reminders during the speeches.
I don't know whether you aspire, whether you want to still have your 30 second reminders.
You're happy not to as well.
Okay.
So we'll ditch the 30 second reminders.
I've just been asked that.
Okay.
Right.
That's the admin, I think.
Are there any procedure changes or rules or anything?
Okay.
Thank you.
Mr Speaker, we have three actually.
Cllr Maium Talukdar - 0:14:46
So the first one is the bring back the Lido in Victoria Park.
The second one housing improvement programme.
So do you want me to go through the procedure now?
I'll go through that.
So I move under the procedure 12 .1N to suspend the procedure rule 17 to move item 5 .2B to
bring back leader in Victoria Park to be heard as this has been an ongoing campaign for the
residents and given the ongoing health inequalities we feel that this petition deserves to be
heard especially with the work the council has been doing around swimming.
The second one, Mr Speaker, I move that under the procedure 12 .1C to change the order of
business to move 12 .1, Mayor's Housing Improvement Programme, to be heard following the opposition
motion due to the rating given by the social housing regulator at the end of Decent Homes
programme and the scale of investment and the strategy requirement for us to undertake works
to address fire safety, building safety and damp and mould.
And the last one is, Mr Speaker, under the Procedure Rule 12 .1C to change the order of
to move item 10 .3, the gender and equality pay gap report,
to be heard after item 9 .1.
Given the historic failings to address the gender pay gap
and the amount of work officers have taken to ensure equity in our pay scales,
this is vital for our commitment to maintain this achievement in the future.
Further, the Women's Commission, containing critical external partners,
has encouraged that the tackling of women's equality to be brought back forefront of the
Council's effort.
Lastly, we will allow time for discussion of item 10 .2, continuous improvement update.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Is there a seconder?
Mr Matthew Mannion - 0:16:45
Mr Speaker, I formally second all three points.
Can I just repeat that to make sure I've got it right?
So the Lido petition which is one of those that's just to be noted, bring that forward
so we hear the other petitions as planned but then we also hear from that one.
Move the housing motion 12 .1 up to after the opposition motion at agenda item 8.
Move the gender equality report up from 10 .3 here after the constitution report at 9 .1
and you've confirmed that when we get there we will make sure we have time for the best
value report.
So there needs to be a change of order of business, there needs to be reasons for urgency.
I know you set out a number during that.
Is there anything else you want to say?
After 9 .1, yes.
Thank you.
Okay.
So is there anything else you want to say on the reasons for urgency?
So sorry, did you have a procedure at all?
Cllr Shubo Hussain - 0:17:46
Mr Matthew Mannion - 0:17:48
Cllr Shubo Hussain - 0:17:49
I would also like to move the procedural 12 .1N to hear the petition in addition to everything
he has mentioned on the Tiller Road petition to be heard as well.
You have a seconder for your request.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 0:18:02
Can you also put in some reasons for urgency, please?
Change the order.
Cllr Shubo Hussain - 0:18:09
The reason for that is because the Samudah is a private registered provider.
Sorry, I apologise.
It's because there's huge residents are raising complaints all the time about the congestion
within that area and it's causing a huge nuisance and it's something that residents deserve.
Their concerns need to be spoken about today.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 0:18:34
The speaker will need to consider the reasons for urgency so I will give him a moment to
talk to the monitoring officer about that.
But just while we do, I think we should probably cheque that actually the petitioners are here
or else it's a wasted discussion.
So for the Lido, can you indicate if you are here for the Lido petition?
I've got a hand up.
And for the Tiller Road petition?
Anyone for the Tiller Road petition?
It doesn't look like there's anyone here for the tiller petition.
So we'll go back.
If they turn up, we'll consider that then.
So I understand that the speaker has accepted the reasons for urgency put down by the Deputy
Mayor.
So we will only worry about that procedure all at the moment and we'll come back to the
tiller road one if the petitioners come in later.
So can I see all those in favour of the aspire proposal, please?
All those against?
Abstentions?
I take it.
Okay.
So that's carried.
So we'll make those changes as we go along the night.
Thank you.
All right.
So moving on to agenda item 1.
Apologies for absence.

1 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE

I just received apologies for amina Ali.
Are there any other apologies?
And possibly Sabina Khan as well.
So we've got apologies for amina Ali and Sabina Khan.
I think I've seen everyone else.
I think that is it.
Any declarations of interest?

2 DECLARATIONS OF DISCLOSABLE PECUNIARY INTERESTS AND OTHER INTERESTS

No.
I'll take that as no.
Minutes of the previous meeting.

3 MINUTES

We have minutes from both the January and the February meetings today.
Does anyone have any comments on the minutes or can we take them as agreed?
Thank you very much.
I will now hand over to the Chief Exec for any announcements that he may have.
Thank you.

4 TO RECEIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS (IF ANY) FROM THE SPEAKER OF THE COUNCIL OR THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:20:39
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Stephen Halsey - 0:20:42
Council, quite a lot has happened since our last full council meeting on the 18th of February.
Firstly, we have two new appointments to our corporate leadership team, Gillian Marston
and Richard Ennis who are here tonight, have started as our interim corporate directors
for communities and resources respectively.
I'm sure you will join me in welcoming them to their first full council meeting.
March has been an incredibly busy month for Tauhanis and I would like to run through a
few highlights.
We continue to invest when it comes to our children and young people.
Last month saw the opening of a young Tower Hamlets Youth Centre dedicated to girls and
at the start of March we had Children's National Secondary School offer day.
I am pleased to say that 96 .6 % of pupils in Tower Hamlets secured their first choice,
which is an improvement on last year's figure of 94 % and also higher than the national average
of 94 .3%.
Also March is Women's History Month along with International Women's Day and the Council
Council has facilitated events taking place to celebrate the contribution of women to
the borough and promote the work the Council does to support women.
We continue to provide opportunities for women and girls, including free swimming, which
has had 18 ,000 uses since it became available, the new NARED Centre for Women and, as I have
reported previously, we are proud to have a positive gender pay gap in favour of women
at the Council.
One of the ways we have been able to create opportunities for people in Tahemez is through
inward investment. New housing developments and securing multinational companies such
as potentially JP Morgan and Visa to set up their European headquarters in Canary Wharf
will bring much needed revenue.
The type of development and developers that the Council continues to attract helps ensure
that we enable social mobility, access to quality housing, education and health services
and promote employment opportunities for our residents.
Earlier this month, the Council attended Mipim Property Conference, where we promoted investment
opportunities in our borough.
We had several promising meetings with the Deputy Mayor for London for Housing, Tom Copley,
Deputy Mayor for London for Business, Howard Dorber, and we held a roundtable with some
of London's largest housing developers, including Montavani, Barclay Homes, Ballymore, London
Square, Barrett Homes and Fabrics, which we hope to capitalise on in the future.
We are also part of an Opportunity London delegation to Japanese capital investors.
Japan accounts for 10 % of all capital investment in the UK.
We attended events in Business London, Opportunity London and were invited to be part of a panel
session including senior civil servants, investors, architects and built environment professionals,
including chief executives of development corporations and the government's chief planner.
Another mechanism that allows us to realistically assess our improvement journey is through external inspections.
Members will know that our children's services have already been rated outstanding by OSTED
and last week our adult social care service was rated as good by the CQC.
This followed extensive work by service and I would like to congratulate everyone involved.
A special thanks also to our social workers.
It was Social Work Week last week where we highlighted their invaluable work.
Members will also be aware of the new ministerial directions which were announced last week.
As you would have seen last week and in today's full Council report, we have more work to
do when it comes to satisfying the Government about our best value duty and delivering our
continuous improvement plan.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government has exercised his powers
under the Local Government Act to accelerate and support our improvement journey.
This includes replacing the Transformation and Assurance Board to establish an Improvement
Board and adding additional finance expertise and capacity in the Envoy team.
The Secretary of State will appoint an additional Assistant Envoy with finance expertise in
due course.
I want to be clear that the Council recognises the need to deliver our improvement journey
at a greater pace and we are implementing an infrastructure in partnership with the
Ministerial Envise to enable this.
This new support package will provide greater rigour through the streamlining of the governance
of the intervention.
The Secretary of State has reflected that many issues are long -standing and that the
and we recognise that we must go further and faster in those areas highlighted by the Secretary
of State and be tenacious in our approach. This will include regular reports to full
Council. Finally, on 30 March, the Council enters the
pre -election period. We are now intensively preparing for the local elections. We have
one of the most robust election processes in the country. We have administered around
20 successful elections over the past decade.
The integrity of our elections is critical to confidence in the Council and the reputation
of the borough.
That is why, as in previous years, officers are working with the police, the Electoral
Commission, MHCLG and the Home Office to plan for the elections.
We all have an important role to play in ensuring the integrity of the election process and
officers are working intensely to that end.
Absolutely finally, a message from me and your senior leadership team.
As we come to the end of the current administration and the final full council meeting of this term,
I would like to thank all members for their support, challenge and motivation over the last year. Thank you.
Thank you, Steve.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:26:33
Can I just move to now agenda item 5 is to receive petitions.

5 TO RECEIVE PETITIONS

Council has received four petitions to be heard and two to be noted.
Can the corporate head of Democratic and Governance Service please take us through the procedure?
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Okay.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 0:27:03
So we have the four to be heard and two to be noted, but we've got obviously we've got
the request for the Lido petition.
Can I just cheque as well, because I had the make townlets go plant based.
I wasn't sure we had anyone for that one either now.
Do we have are they here for go plant based?
No.
Okay.
So we're down that petition as well.
So in the end we do have four petitions to be heard and we will go through those.
The process is the petitioners come forward, they give a three minute presentation, there's
then four minutes for members to ask questions, brief questions of the petitioners and then
the lead member has two minutes at the end to respond.
So Mr Speaker if you go on to Agenda Item 5 .1.
Thank you Matthew.
We move to Agenda 5 .1.
The first petition is action for the Ocean State,
a petition on community services and Hartford Community Centre.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:28:05
Can I ask Rehana Alam, Gladys Grunt, Nui -Jahan Bibi,
to present the petition on the action for the Ocean State,
a petition on community services and Hartford Community Centre.
You have three minutes to present the petition.
Thank you very much.
Public Speaker - 0:28:39
Good evening, Mr Speaker, and warm greetings to our Mayor, Ruth Foroohaman, and my sincere
as a respect of all the councillor present tonight
from both sides.
My name is Rehana Alam.
I live in Washington State, last 45 years.
And I am here to present this petition
on behalf of the residents of the Stepney
and Washington State.
We have gathered this signature
because we love our neighbourhood
and we want to see it in tribe.
I represent the One Ocean Regeneration Trust, a charity that has been our community anchor
for over 20 years, supporting many local groups and the people with their health and well -being.
We are the people who are here at the grassroots of our borough.
Our petition is about the future.
We are encouraged by the news of the 20 million pride of place plan, but as our petition says,
true pride means seeing local residents becoming the leaders of our neighbourhood.
This top or outside consultants, they are local residents who are committed to seeing
our committee's tribes together.
They are ready to serve at the heart of the new neighbourhood board.
We want to help you make this 20 million funds to success for everyone in the next 10 years.
We want to do it with you as your partners on the estate.
However, as we have made clear, we are facing major challenges.
Our local residents, staff, our community members, our young leaders, and the community
are currently locked out of the offices and the spaces at the Hartford Street Multicultural
Centre.
These citizens are trying to lead our wonderful integration
and spring fair and manage our community programme.
They cannot work for the community if the door is shut.
The public health funding also is...
You have 30 seconds.
Elderly, yes.
Elderly was withdrawn and the funding
for the organised is delayed.
We know everyone here today believes
in local empowerment, our petition simply asks you to help our Ocean Regeneration team
get back to their desk and so then they can deliver these pride and places goals.
We want to make promises of regeneration to be kept so Stephanie can stand on its own
two feet.
I'm an elder and I want to see our community thriving and united as per our petition.
We ask you tonight, reserve the office locked out and our local residents staff can thrive
again please.
Committee or what?
If you can sum up quickly, thank you.
Yes, please.
Yes, please.
And then our partner of the 20 million Pride Place Fund
ensure there are further delays of their funds.
Openly share the plans of the Heart Food Centre
so we can secure Stephanie's future together.
The public health funding elderly for to have a healthy
and safe welcoming space and stay connected to others.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:32:40
Thank you very much for your petition.
Cllr Ayas Miah - 0:32:45
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:32:49
There are now four minutes for questions.
Does any member wish to put a question to the petitioner?
Not making any statement, please go straight to your questions.
Thank you.
Thank you, Speaker, and thank you for coming.
Cllr Abu Talha Chowdhury - 0:33:21
In relation to the ORT, the Ocean Regeneration Trust, are the petitioners aware that the
organisation's core funding for this financial year was paid on the 18th of February this
year?
If any of you are curious, we can talk to my director, Jo -E.
Public Speaker - 0:33:41
She is my director.
Our regeneration trust director is Jo -E.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:33:54
Thank you.
Can I ask James King next, please?
Cllr James King - 0:34:05
I was a trustee of Ocean Regeneration Trust a few years ago, so I know the great work
it does and thank you for explaining the great work it does.
So with all that in mind, what explanation has the council given so far for denying the
facilities at Harford Street and the help that the charity needs?
Has it said anything so far?
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:34:24
Cllr James King - 0:34:33
What do you understand the council has said so far as to why Ocean Regeneration Trust
hasn't got the help and the support, especially around half the street that you think is needed?
Have they said anything so far?
Because there's a lot of older women
live in the Washington state.
Public Speaker - 0:34:52
They're vulnerable.
Like myself, after COVID -19, I'm so isolated.
And then lots of women is like this.
When the open regeneration starts
in the multicultural centre, the women are coming.
They have lots of activities, and then the inside, outside,
and then also we got the park run and the walking and then coffee morning
activities and then knitting, arts and crafts, so many people are enjoying this
one. This way we want to keep running the session, the multicultural
centre. Can I ask Councillor Ayasmeer please. Thank you for bringing the important
petition about ORT.
Yes, the Australian
Cllr Ayas Miah - 0:35:40
Reserve Trust have been providing very important valuable services for a long time from the Harvard Centre and
due to the funding cost, they are struggling currently and
do you think the council should allocate some extra funds in order to continue your important services?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:36:01
Public Speaker - 0:36:05
people are there, local area, local people, local people enjoy this centre and then they
are struggling because the other organisations they shut the door, then we can't go inside
and then we can't do anything in this centre.
Thank you very much. Yes, you're running out of time because I'm
Thank you very much.
Many years ago when it was started I was a Councillor in St Dunstan.
Cllr Marc Francis - 0:36:38
Do you know the idea was the shop rent should go to the ORT to support the work that you
want to do.
Did that ever happen?
Cllr Abdal Ullah - 0:36:47
I don't think so.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:36:48
Thank you.
Public Speaker - 0:36:50
Just a quick one, last one please.
Thank you Speaker and thank you petitioner.
Cllr Abdul Wahid - 0:36:58
Cllr Musthak Ahmed - 0:37:05
In relation to your centre, could the petitioners say a little more about their concerns given
that the ground floor will remain a community facility and the first floor has been under
used for some time.
Would you like to explain if possible?
Public Speaker - 0:37:19
The ground floor is the hall and then everyone can meet together.
And then the first floor is that we need one office room.
Otherwise only the centre is the one on the ground floor, it's not working properly.
It's that we have a lot of things to do and then we go to the upstairs and then our things,
the materials and then so many things we can put into our office.
And then my director, she also used the office room.
We need an office and then the ground floor as well, space.
Thank you.
I just missed one, name was given before.
Ayesha, can you just quickly please ask your question?
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Cllr Maisha Begum - 0:38:04
First of all, I'd like to thank you so much for attending.
I know how much work you guys have put in,
me being a councillor for St. John's for the past four years.
I have seen how you have worked with the younger workshops, youth groups, as well as people
in the elderly projects as well.
I would just like to ask how you feel, as not just individuals, but as a collective
as well in terms of council, how there has been a slight lack of accountability or what
sort of process that we can put in place going forward that we can be accountable, whether
it be consultations or just more transparency around that.
I would like to give you the platform to speak on that.
Thank you.
Public Speaker - 0:38:41
If anybody has anything, my director, Joey, she can answer you the good things if you
email them.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Now we conclude this item.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:38:58
Does Councillor Kabir Ahmed, cabinet member for regeneration inclusive development and
housing, house building, wish to address the meeting in response to the petition.
You have two minutes.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Thank you, residents, for this petition.
Cllr Kabir Ahmed - 0:39:16
The programme reference was established during the COVID period to provide support in tackling
loneliness on the Ocean Estate.
Following the end of the funding for a caretaker role, the initiative was funded through a
£255 ,000 allocation from the Public Health COVID funding stream.
Once this funding stream concluded, it was not feasible to continue to fund the programme
through the core public health grant.
The Council informed Ocean Regeneration Trust in advance that the contract would be ending
to ensure that they could explore alternative funding opportunities.
This is no requirement within the council's lease for public consultation on alternative
use that fall within the permitted scope of community use.
The ground floor of the Harford Street multicenter will remain unchanged and will continue to
operate as a community facility available for local hire and events.
The first floor has been significantly underutilised for the past two years.
The Council is therefore reviewing options to optimise this space with a proposal to
bring back into operation the use of a pilot one -stop shop.
This would enhance access to services for the local community while retaining an element
of the space for community hire.
In line with standard Council governance processes, relevant documentation including equality
impact assessments were required.
While we will be undertaking a considered process as part of a formal decision making
process, the Council remains committed to ensuring that any changes continue to support
the needs of local residents and service users.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
That concludes the item.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:41:27
The petition stands to the corporate director of housing and regeneration for a written
response within 28 days.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
Applause
Ok, now we just move to Agenda item 5 .2, which is I believe no one here to represent speaking on it.
So the petition stands to refer to the corporate director for communities for written response
within 28 days.
Now we move to agenda item 5 .3, which is request for a plaque honouring the late Derek Cox,
Mohammed Derek Cox. Can I ask Foye -Sula Ahmed, Abdu Shoukur Qalisadhar and Shaz Namiyah to
present the petition on the request for the plaque honouring the late Mohammed Derek Cox.
You have three minutes to present your petition. Thank you.
Public Speaker - 0:42:51
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We stand before you today in support of this
petition and in honour of a man whose life's work is inseparable from the storey
of Brick Lane and our wider community. Muhammad Derek Cox OBE. Derek began his
in the East End in 1963.
And by 1965, he had founded Avenues Unlimited on Brick Lane,
an organisation that went on to shape generations.
From that point onward, for more than five decades,
he dedicated himself to the people of this borough,
particularly the Bangladeshi community,
during some of its most difficult and defining years.
At a time of social tension, poverty and racial hostility,
Derek chose not division, but unity.
He worked tirelessly with young people and families,
building confidence, creating opportunity,
and fostering a sense of belonging.
He was not a man of titles or recognition.
In fact, he was a man of presence, consistent, humble,
and deeply committed.
His impact cannot simply be measured in years,
but in lives changed.
In the generations he guided, the families he supported,
and the community he helped strengthen.
His contribution was recognised nationally with an OBE.
But here in Tower Hamlets, where that service was lived every day,
we have a responsibility to ensure his legacy is permanently recognised.
Hi, I'd like to say we are very grateful for the tree planting
that was planted in the gut by Chicksand Estate.
And we thank the Mayor and the lead member,
Councillor Campbell -Hussain, for the tribute.
Today we ask to take one step further,
to commemorate a plaque, may seem a very small gesture,
but it carries a profound meaning.
It ensures that Mohammed Derek Cox's contribution
to the local community are not forgotten,
and that the future generation can see his name
and learn about the values he stood for.
Service, compassion and community.
We have suggested a meaningful location,
including Wheeler House, Brick Lane Mosque,
Brick Lane and near his former office
and the Hunton Street area.
All the places closely connected to his life and work.
We are of course happy to work with the council
to determine the most appropriate location.
We also ask considering naming a building within the ward
after Derek Cox, a lasting visible tribute to the reflect, the scales and contribution.
So this petition reflects the voice of the community.
Community that has not forgotten him.
Even today, Derek's legacy continues to unite us and guide us.
If you look across this chamber, you will see many individuals, including members and
residents whose journeys have been shaped directly or indirectly by his work.
Honouring Mohammed Derek Cox sends a clear message that we value those who dedicate the
lives to others and that the legacy will continue.
We urge you to support this petition and work with us to
ensure he is recognised in the place he serves so faithfully.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you, Chancellor.
Thank you.
Thank you.
You have now, I think there are now four minutes for question.
Does any member wish to put a question to the petitioner?
Please do not make any statement or comments.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:46:51
Can I ask Kabir Hossain, sorry, Kabir Ahmed first please.
Cllr Kabir Ahmed - 0:47:31
Thank you Mr Speaker, clearly not Kabir Hossain, I have my pants.
Dear petitioners, I spoke to Derek's son a couple of days ago, Andrew, he unfortunately
gives his apologies, he can't attend because he's got a prior engagement. So would you
mind forwarding on the petition and invites to the plaque to Derek's son, I
brought you the details on. And also just also commemorating, Derek did about 20
years of foster work as well, so there are many children who have been brought
up partly by Derek and he's assisted many foster carers as well as a
one of the foster carers that he supported and she is also very passionate and supportive
of this plaque. So they would appreciate an invitation.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:48:37
Cllr Kabir Ahmed - 0:48:39
The question was would you mind inviting the extra people who have, Derek has enriched
their lives to attend the opening of a plaque ceremony?
Public Speaker - 0:48:49
Would you like them to come on the ground here or in the gallery?
Just a little bit.
With Fostering, with Derek, I mean, he was such an amazing
person, whoever knew Derek, he's done
Fostering over 20 plus years from all ages.
Many times you'd see Derek walking around Brick Lane area
maybe with a two month old, six weeks old, from toddler to teenagers.
He was such a fantastic person. He gave us the childhood that we would never have had growing up in the 70s and 80s,
if it wasn't for Derek and believing in a community that he could change.
My first job was with Derek, so the first footsteps that we had, having that encouragement and then many followed through as well,
doing youth work. He's left such a legacy and he wasn't just a youth worker, he was
actually like family. He was a father figure, he was a brother to people. I mean I could
go on all evening and it wouldn't be enough to actually remember Derek.
Thank you. Can I ask Councillor Shugo to sign please?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:49:57
Cllr Shubo Hussain - 0:50:02
Thank you Mr Speaker. Before I ask the question, one of my fondest memories is we used to live
wheeler house and before we lived in Woodsea Street but my most fondest memory was
and thank you to my former youth worker Shukruba here as well but my fondest
memory was when Derek used to come brother Derek used to come to their
estate you can hear everyone saying Derek is here. Can you go to a question?
From your home so everyone so in English it's Derek's here so everyone
I'm glad you brought this petition in today.
Could I kindly request that I'm glad you planted the tree,
but if there is a plaque, could the rest of the community be invited?
Thanks for the question.
Yes, definitely.
Public Speaker - 0:50:52
Derek was such a man that he's going to unite,
or he has united people from all kind of political spectrum.
So definitely we want to, you know, if this administration will grant us this request,
then definitely, you know, we would like to make a massive community event.
Thank you.
Can I take Mr. Karmot, please?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:51:22
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thank you very much, petitioners.
Cllr Abdul Wahid - 0:51:25
We're talking about late Mohammed Derek Cox, OBE.
Cllr Musthak Ahmed - 0:51:33
Would you kindly tell us more about his contribution to the youth in the borough, as you have mentioned
or referred to him as a mentor?
So would you like to explain a little bit?
Thank you.
Thank you, Councillor Austari.
Cllr Abdul Wahid - 0:51:48
Public Speaker - 0:51:50
So I've known Derek since I was 12 years old, although I didn't have the privilege of working
that closely with him because I had part of another youth club similar to think
but most of my friends from the Wheeler house hunting estate practically grew up
under Derek to the point where we used to tease them and say you know Derek's
like a like a father I can go on like sister said I said all evening talking
about Derek's if you just be more precise and yeah I'll give you I'll
I'll tell you one storey.
And it's something I learned fairly recently.
Every Friday, Derek would quietly visit certain families in the neighbourhood and give them cash.
Now, and this would be for groceries, food, rent, whatever.
And no one would know they were receiving it to the point, you know, Derek would never tell anyone.
It's only years later that we found out because people have...
That's the kind of person Derek was, such a selfless person and his legacy was remembered for a long time.
Could I just add something concerning your...
We're well over the time now.
Just 30 seconds.
10 seconds, okay that's fine.
So there was no crime, no drug dealing because we had space to go to.
So we weren't out in the streets.
So that really helped our generation growing up, having that youth space.
And then empowering myself and other members.
Thank you. Since I knew Derek very well as well, I've been growing up under his umbrella as a youth worker.
So everyone has so much to say about him.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:53:42
Thank you. This concludes...
To conclude this item, does Councillor Shafi Ahmed wish to address the meeting in response to the petition?
You have two minutes.
Thank you, Mr Speaker. Thank you petitioner for bringing this petition.
Cllr Kamrul Hussain - 0:54:15
The sad news of the passing of Mohamed Derek Cox OBE was a short to us all who grew up
in the borough. Derek was an exemplary youth worker who dedicated his life to supporting
many of us growing up.
He was a pioneer in the community and youth work.
Mr. Cox was one of the first social workers many immigrant
families first engaged with upon moving to the borough.
And he approached people with the type of sensitivity that
is befitting of the anxieties and concerns of new migrants.
With regards to your request, this administration agrees that
the storey and example of Muhammad Derek Cox should be honoured.
And a plaque to remember Derek's legacy should be mounted in a location in the heart of the borough.
In these times of rising racial tension and a far right that sees nothing but hatred and division,
the lessons that Derek taught many of us must remain as our guide to ensuring that relations
between communities in Tawahanders remain positive and cohesive.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Public Speaker - 0:55:32
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:55:34
Thank you very much.
That concludes this item.
The petition stands referred to the corporate director for communities for a written response
within 28 days.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I move to agenda item 5 .4, improvement to the housing conditions in Samud estate.
Can I ask Anwar Paneika?
Anurag Punekar, Hani Zafarzadeh and Dylan Mia to present the petition on the improvement
to the housing condition in Samudha State.
You have three minutes between, or if you may share your time between three of you if
you wish.
Thank you very much.
Public Speaker - 0:56:55
Speaker, Mayor and Members of the Council, I present this petition on behalf of residents
of the Samudha Estate, residents who are quite frankly losing patience.
They are not raising minor concerns.
People are living with broken lifts, unsafe communal areas, damp and mould, broken refuse
systems, ASB and repairs that are reported time and again but simply not
resolved. Now the estate is managed by Riverside Housing Association. They deal
with day -to -day maintenance. On that they're falling short but residents
don't experience this in isolation. They see a wider system and from their
perspective the council has not been forceful enough in holding Riverside to account.
What makes this worse is the uncertainty around regeneration.
Residents feel their homes are being allowed to deteriorate while decisions about the future
are delayed.
This is not a regeneration.
This is managed decline.
And regeneration can never be an excuse for neglect.
So this petition asks for the council to step up, not just as a partner but as a watch dog.
A, to urgently review conditions on the estate.
B, to robustly challenge Riverside with clear timelines for action.
C, to require a formal report to housing scrutiny committee, ensuring transparency and accountability.
because at heart this is about basic principle.
Residents of Samudha State deserve safe, secure homes
that are well maintained.
Now, not at some future point.
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:58:57
Public Speaker - 0:59:01
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 0:59:03
Thank you for the opportunity to share our concerns.
Public Speaker - 0:59:05
My name is Hani Jafarzadeh.
I'm the HMP and custody health care.
It's about nine years I'm living in Kelso House and it is lots of issues in there unfortunately
and the poor management from Riverside.
As Mr Amber mentioned, most of the time there is a lift issue and it is a several disabled
persons who live in the Kelso house.
It is a drug activity, murder and then CCTV failure unfortunately from the police and
from the council none of the CCTV's are working.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Our state, Samodar state is so uncomfortable to stay, unprofessional to stay because of the children and all this police work doesn't help.
Even the council does not have support in that.
We'll be grateful if we have some sort of help from the council.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
There are now four minutes for your questions.
And remember, we wish to ask them questions, please.
Don't make any comments.
Just go straight to the questions.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:00:21
Can I start with Belal, Councillor Belal please.
Thank you.
Cllr Bellal Uddin - 1:01:07
Thank you Mr. Speaker and thank you Mr. Commissioner.
I would like to ask a very short simple question to the Anwar Sen.
I will leave to the Samudha.
And my second question is, how can you say resident are not happy based on 30 signatures
and out of 2000 residents leave to the Samudha?
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:01:33
I am a community worker.
Public Speaker - 1:01:34
I don't live in Samudha state but I live in Black Holland Kibitong world.
And I've always worked for the residents so that's why whichever state it is I've worked
at with many petitions.
And on the question of how do I know based on 30 signatures, whoever I speak to, whoever
I knocked the door that time. They all know that the issues we've identified are familiar
with them. They're not something new. No one is happy there. They are scared because of
you guys, whether you are looking at them. So please do something about the resident.
It's not about party politics. It's about people living there with real issues. Thank
Thank you.
Cllr Kabir Ahmed - 1:02:32
People in the audience are making derogatory remarks and I believe the monitoring officer
set out the rules and regulations of attending this meeting.
This kind of appalling behaviour is what strikes the council down.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:02:51
Cllr Kabir Ahmed - 1:02:52
No, no.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:02:54
Just, can I ask...
Sayid Ahmed, please.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and thanks to the petitioners.
Cllr Saied Ahmed - 1:03:08
What engagement have you had with the TRA?
As I've seen the TRA and local councillors have met with Riverside regularly.
So what's your relationship with the TRA there?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:03:23
Public Speaker - 1:03:30
We are talking to residents directly because it's the residents who are feeling the pain directly
because they are going through the mould and dam, they are going through lift issues,
they are going through all the troubles.
So we don't want to go through indirectly. We will definitely get in touch with the TRA.
But the first and foremost people who are suffering with all these things are the residents.
So we are starting from bottom up. Thank you.
Can I ask Peter Golds, Councillor Peter Golds, please.
Cllr Peter Golds - 1:04:01
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Over 20 years I've dealt with the Samudha, I've dealt with St. John's,
I've dealt with Kingsbridge and I've dealt sometimes with the Barkontine.
Do you agree with me that it is deplorable that your ultimate landlord is based in Liverpool
and should be somewhere in London where we can all communicate with and the council should
be saying that these estates, the four estates, should be taken away from Riverside and returned
to the London Borough Tower Hamlet so we can manage the houses?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:04:32
Absolutely agree.
Thank you.
Public Speaker - 1:04:37
Was there a question or just suggestion?
Thank you.
Right, can I ask Mofida Bastian please?
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Mufeedah Bustin - 1:04:47
Thank you for bringing the petition on behalf of residents.
It's really important to hear.
Are you aware of two things?
Are you aware that in 2022 the Aspire Majority Planning Committee approved a Riverside application
to increase storeys on a block in Bing Street by six floors
but with no additional social housing.
And are you aware that two years ago, residents of Kelson House
received a letter from the mayor saying that he was committed
to fixing the lifts in Kelson House?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:05:21
We were aware but nothing happened.
Public Speaker - 1:05:22
Thank you.
Yes, no problem, nothing happened.
Can I move to...
We've been there for 15 years and every year it's going down, it's not improving.
And as we know, we have three council members there, it's my black corner, I'm keeping it down.
They know they were aware of our proposition.
We have door front door is locked and back door is open.
So any kids, anybody who can walk in anytime 24 -7, as they know they were there all the time.
Thank you.
And our service is going worse day by day, not improved at all.
Thank you very much. We ran out of time already.
So I'll just...
APPLAUSE
To conclude...
CHEERING
To conclude this item,
does Councillor Coburn wish to address the meeting in response to the petition?
You have two minutes.
Thank you, Speaker. Speaker, I would appreciate it.
Cllr Kabir Ahmed - 1:06:18
A former Councillor was heckling from the audience.
If you could have words with members in the audience.
I would appreciate that speaker.
And I would also appreciate you stopping Councillor Abdullallah from heckling as well.
He does it on a regular basis without any sanctions.
Right.
So, petitioners, thank you for your petition.
I'm assuming you are aware that Riverside is one of the G15 housing operators and under
current government's laws, they manage the assets within Samulda.
I'm sure you're aware of that, particularly Mr Anwar,
as you were a former member of the council employees list
until very recently when you left the council.
Now, what's important to understand here is that there are numerous challenges
with the housing stock that's there. And as a council we regularly engage with Riverside
as an organisation. One of the requests in your petition is that Riverside to come to
the housing scrutiny subcommittee. Well I'm not sure if you've been following the news
but they were here about two months ago reporting to the housing scrutiny subcommittee so that's
a tip that's done already. Now the structural issues that exist within
Kelsen House and a number of other blocks there, definitely we are working very proactively
with Riverside as an organisation. The Deputy Mayor and the Wardat Councillors have regular
meetings and work proactively with residents of the four estates forum, which includes
Samuda. I would suggest you speak to the TRA and maybe get involved within that. Clearly
you're not too familiar with how the estate operates. I would also suggest that...
Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. That concludes the item.
The petition stands referred to the corporate director of housing and regeneration for a
return response within 28 days.
Thank you, petitioners.
Thank you.
Okay.
The petition five point, excuse me, excuse me.
We move to already the next agenda.
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:08:57
The petition 5 .5 is on stop.
The Tiller Road traffic chaos is listed on the agenda to be noted only.
The petition therefore stands referred to the corporate...
Yes?
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 1:09:25
Just as there was a potential procedural earlier to hear this one, can I just cheque, is anybody
about from Tiller Road here?
Okay.
So you're here so you can present this petition if we were to hear it.
Yeah?
Okay.
So in that case, Mr Speaker, if it's okay, we'll go back to the procedural that was moved
proposed earlier.
Councillor Hussain, could you just remind us what your reasons for urgency were?
Residents on Tiller Road have been complaining about the traffic chaos in Tiller Road and
it's become a mess so this is why we want to hear from the residents today.
Cllr Shubo Hussain - 1:10:04
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:10:08
Mr Matthew Mannion - 1:10:17
Okay, so I understand that from Mr. Speaker he's happy to put that proposal to the vote.
So all those in favour of hearing from this petition?
Okay, yeah, that's pretty much everyone.
Anyone against?
No, okay, I think that's carried.
So in that case, if I can ask the gentleman to come forward
and if you can make yourself,
state your name before anything else.
So we've got that for the record.
Thanks.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:10:55
Thank you, petitioner.
Public Speaker - 1:11:08
You have three minutes to present your petition.
Thank you.
Hi, so my name is Daniel Lynch.
I have lived on the Isle of Dogs in the Barkentine Estate for almost 20 years now.
I'm going to give you a bit of context about what we're talking about when we say traffic
chaos on Tiller Road.
For example, when you enter into this road, you have to come through a one -way system.
Going through that one -way system, you then exit out through Tiller Road.
It is a completely residential road.
The reason why it was made a one -way was because of all the traffic incidents that were happening there many years ago
I'm sure if anyone else here. I noticed some councillors that are here
They witnessed that and that was the reason why that motion got put in
What is currently being proposed there is they're looking to put a traffic management system
Which could include temporary traffic lights at the end of Alpha Grove onto the junction of tiller Road
That is our only way out
It doesn't just affect the residents of Tiller Road and the current regeneration project that's happening there.
It affects everyone throughout the Barkington Estate.
It affects beyond that as well because what will happen is the traffic will spill out onto West Ferry Road.
Now what the, what Mount Anville have been saying is that they're going to have a traffic management system there and
make sure that all of the lorries that come in will come in at a specific time and it won't disrupt the residents.
It fully will, even if we have someone break down there or stop to even get out of the car for a moment,
a lot of times we have ambulances that go there to pick up other children or elderly people, and sometimes it's worse.
Even just for the five minutes that they're there, there's a backlog of traffic that leads out onto West Ferry Road.
The state of the roads as well has also been added to because of the amount of traffic that goes through the back there.
It then continues on as it goes through onto West Ferry Road onto the other side.
If you now start adding lorries coming in on a single carriageway where there's traffic
on both sides, there's parking on both sides, you get completely gridlocked in.
We've got at least three schools around there, that means people get blocked in for trying
to get their kids to school.
We also get blocked in from ambulances, people trying to get to work and yeah, it's absolute
chaos that happens there. Now we haven't no one has been consulted with there's
been no consultation the letters that have gone out is barely gone out to any
anyone in the community other than directly or those who they feel are
affected. We've also had 30 no 20 car parking spaces taken it's already
overcrowded there you are adding one block where it's got 200 200 new
properties coming in we've got this now current construction coming in we're
another 200 properties, 400 actually, this is all going to increase on there. Now residents
cannot move from there, it gets gridlocked in the mornings, it causes arguments, people
are late for doctors and then if you can go into all of the traffic and congestion that
you have there, it causes absolute chaos for the residents that live there and none of
them have been made aware about it.
Thank you very much.
You have now four minutes for questions.
Does any member wish to...
Can you just push mine and drop your finger?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:14:43
I'll put some here there as well.
So...
Can I start with Councillor Boudreaux -Chandler, please?
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Thank you to the Pichina.
Cllr Bodrul Choudhury - 1:15:27
Sorry.
Do you want to go first, may you?
No? Fine.
So, as you said, thank you for coming tonight.
You haven't been consulted.
You haven't been.
So, I am very familiar with the area.
One of my auntie lives just down the road from Tiller Road.
So, what is it that you'd like us to do?
There is a lot of my colleagues who are councillors in the island.
If you could just give us some insights. Thank you.
Thank you.
Yes, no, what we would like is proper consultation process.
Public Speaker - 1:16:01
We'd like a traffic management survey done there,
so we can actually prove the actual chaos that it causes there
and how many people are affected.
At the moment, the current plan that they've got in place
is only there to cater for people within Tiller Road.
They're not thinking about the rest of the Barkington Estate,
which also includes Phoenix Heights as well.
So it affects a number of places there.
A lot of people from the neighbouring blocks that go onto Musmaker Road, they also park
on Alpha Grove and Stratford Street because there's less parking on their roads.
So taking away 20 spaces as well is causing havoc there already in an already congested
place.
Now that's what we're asking for is that we're being consulted properly so then we don't
want it to be where we're just scrapping a whole regeneration process, we want to actively
be part of that regeneration process to come to a mutual solution that's best for everyone.
One of the solutions that we put forward was in the hope that developers would work with
each other and have the access go through the print work site.
If that was to happen, there would be zero disruption to any residents there and it would
actually be more efficient for the regeneration process to go through.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you for bringing your petition.
Cllr Mufeedah Bustin - 1:17:23
Could you just give us an idea of the developer who is behind all of this construction work?
Thank you.
Certainly.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:17:34
Public Speaker - 1:17:36
So the developer is working in conjunction with Riverside.
The developer is called Mount Townville.
They do normally have quite a good engagement process.
On this occasion it hasn't gone out further enough.
It's only gone to the literally neighbouring houses and across the road from the actual construction itself
Albeit that the roads are not just a state parking. It's actually Tower Hamlets as well and TFL
I don't feel that they've been consulted and they haven't consulted residents either and
Just to give you a little bit more context as well
I'm for the same ones that done the Bingham Bellamy
Regeneration project and all of the residents there if you talk to all the neighbouring residents the amount of chaos that they've had to deal
with, not just from the usual noise and dust that goes on, but are taken away of car parking
spaces without letting people know, taken away of garage spaces without letting people
know and having zero consultation. So these are the things that have been going on. Also
you've got many lorries that come down Bing Street and come down these roads. They come
at different times, they don't come according to schedule. Traffic everywhere in London
can cause disruption. So they don't come according to schedule. With Mount Anvil their plan is
for them to have a specific schedule to miss school runs and things like that, it will
not work. If you live there, it is completely different to someone writing down on a busy
Thank you very much. You only have four minutes and 30 seconds left.
Councillor Said, please, quickly.
Thank you, Mr Speaker, and thanks to the petitioners. I mean, I think you will understand the importance
Cllr Saied Ahmed - 1:19:01
of development. We just heard another petition on Sumida State, so I think that area around
Kedge House in his development.
So I think we'll welcome that.
But I wanted to understand, with Mount Anville,
have you had any discussions with them in regards
to traffic management so far?
And was there any communication with the officers?
We understand the importance of the traffic flow,
especially on the island when you've got Marsh Wall
and Blue Bridge.
When we have traffic problems, it sort of puts the whole island
in the gridlock.
Tiller Road is tight.
So what was your communication so far?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:19:33
Public Speaker - 1:19:35
It has been made aware to Mount Anvil, we have spoken with their community engagement
team. At that moment in time when I spoke to them I was told that this is a regeneration
process, this is what happens. That's not acceptable. When we have spoken to the actual
on site team for Bingham Bellamy they have learnt from past mistakes so now their attitude
is very different and it's the same site manager that will be coming over so hopefully it won't
be as bad as it has been for Bingham Bellamy. So we're not looking to stop a regeneration
process, that's ridiculous. I live in an overcrowded situation myself and I worked in regeneration.
So I'll be here to say that.
We are looking for active solutions for all the residents.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.
To conclude the item, Shafi Ahmed, cabinet member for regeneration and…
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
And thank you, Mr Sheva, for putting it…
…the position.
Please, thank you.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Thank you, Mr Speaker, for putting it so eloquently.
Cllr Shafi Ahmed - 1:20:41
and raising your concerns.
This is also our concern and I'd like to just reiterate
that Mount Anville is a developer that will work
with the council to ensure that there are traffic management
programmes in place prior to that.
Our officers will work and consider construction process
will include measures to mitigate traffic congestion
where possible.
Also I have been engaged with local councillor,
Councillor Talukdar and Councillor Saeed Ahmad
who have returned to the offices earlier this month as ward councillors to meet them.
I would be happy to meet them with co -councillors to ensure that the residents of Taylor Road
have a fair chance and a fair engagement to show whether we can mitigate some of the concerns that you have raised.
So we are happy to work with you. I'm happy to work with the ward councillors to ensure that there is a plan in place
and residence concerns are raised and I look forward to meeting you within the next few weeks.
I'll let my board councillor get in touch with you.
I'll be happy to do that as well. Thank you.
Thank you, thank you, Councillor.
Shupriya Iqbal - 1:22:00
The position stands in effect to the relevant corporate director for written response within 28 days.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:22:01
Thank you very much.
We move to Agenda 5 .6, now bring back the Lido in Victoria Park.
Can I ask Aminul Haque to present the petition on the bring back the Lido in Victoria Park.
You have three minutes to present the petition.
Thank you.
Good evening, Mr Speaker.
Public Speaker - 1:22:37
Thank you for the opportunity to speak.
I stand here on behalf of all residents of Ta Hamlets calling for the return of a public
open air Lido in Victoria Park.
We are living in one of the most expensive cities in the world.
During the time when many families, including my own, are facing a cost of living crisis.
For many, access to affordable family friendly activities is becoming more and more increasingly
limited. This is not just a leisure issue, it's a quality of life issue. At the same
time improving public health, I know it's a priority and it must remain a priority for
the council. I appreciate the council has made strong progress in expanding access to
the gym and leisure facilities across the borough and this work is much appreciated.
However, there's a clear opportunity to go further. So Hamlets is one of the few boroughs
in London without a Lido. While our winters are long, we do have some very vibrant summers.
Our green spaces, especially the old winning Victoria Park, can transform how families access
these spaces and utilise these spaces. It would provide a safe and inclusive and affordable place
where people of all ages and backgrounds and generations can stay active, be connected and
enjoy the outdoors. Right now many residents, including my own neighbours, are travelling to
other boroughs to access cities like London Fields and even as far as Hampstead Heath.
So there is a gap in our local provision.
This isn't just about swimming, it's about tackling the health inequalities and creating
accessible spaces for our families.
I would like the Council to build on the existing strong foundations and commit to bringing
back the Lido to Victoria Park, a facility that once served in the community for decades
can do so again for a new generation ahead.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Thank you very much.
Thank you.
There are now four minutes for questions.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:24:36
Does any member wish to put their question to the petitioner?
I'm not making any statements.
Thank you.
Can I ask Mark Francis, please?
Thank you.
Thank you for bringing this petition.
Cllr Marc Francis - 1:24:53
I would like to ask the petitioner, are you aware that the Mayor, through commissioning
additional days for commercial events in Victoria Park, has brought in something in the region
of £5 million in income to Tower Hamlets Council over the last four years?
And are you aware of how much he has actually spent on capital improvements to Victoria
in that period and if not, can you ask the lead member?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:25:23
Thank you for that question.
Public Speaker - 1:25:27
I'm aware that the events that take place in Victoria Park,
commercial events in particular, have brought a substantial amount of investment to the borough.
However, I'm not aware of what allocation of those profits and investments
have been allocated specifically to, if they were restricted in any way,
to be spent in improving Victoria Park.
They may have been allocated in other regions and other budgets across the council.
I'm not privy to that information.
I have not had the privilege to access that information.
I can request for that question to be asked.
Thank you.
Can I ask Gholam Kibri a Chaudhry, please?
Cllr Gulam Kibria Choudhury - 1:26:07
Thank you, petitioner, for bringing this nice petition to this chamber tonight.
Your petition records the history of the Laido in Victoria Park.
Our parks are our source of pride for us.
Are there any other ways you can suggest enhancing our parks?
Do you have any suggestion?
Public Speaker - 1:26:28
I think some of our parks around the borough have some accessible gym equipment and I hope
to see that many of the other smaller parks and larger parks across the borough we can
and the investment has raised
into opening more accessible
open air equipment.
Not everyone wishes to and wants to access the
gyms.
It is great we are renovating the gyms
and providing more accessible,
affordable options.
Some of those investments to play
equipment outdoors
and making the space
more open
and more inclusive
for children with sensory needs,
those improvements can be done
across the borough.
We have slowly been seeing that
across the few years. So I hope that answers the question.
Thank you Mr Speaker. Can I thank the Commissioner for bringing this petition. As somebody who
Cllr Abdi Mohamed - 1:27:13
is born and grew up in the planets of Victoria Park I really welcome this. We are in both
really diverse communities so can I ask how you have engaged in many different communities
of our local area?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:27:25
Public Speaker - 1:27:27
Yeah sure. So I live just on the border of Bow and Roman Road. I'm quite actively running
I live in Victoria Park myself.
I'm quite active myself.
So I've been speaking to residents
across from the Malmsbury estate,
right across to the Roman roadside,
coming onto the border of Bromley and Bowside.
So almost correlating across the borough.
So knocking on doors, speaking to residents
on my jogs at the same time,
and to find out actually how is it that they've impacted.
I'm in various family groups and parent outing groups,
so I've shared here those frustrations
of the summers that have come,
that people have gone to the Lido,
They have had to go as far as
rice deep
to access some activity with their child.
This shouldn't be the case.
We have something on our doorstep that we can establish
and build.
These have been repeated concerns that have come about
in the last couple of months, from last summer to this summer.
I thought, now is the time to do something about it.
Because another someone is going to come
and another someone is going to go.
I don't want to be one of those visitors
that has heard those concerns and done nothing about it.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I can take one more question from Councillor Mr Karmit, please.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:28:32
Thank you, Speaker, and thank you, Petit Shana.
Cllr Abdul Wahid - 1:28:34
My question is how do you think a Lido in Victoria Park would best serve the needs of
Cllr Musthak Ahmed - 1:28:41
local residents compared to existing facilities nearby?
Could you repeat?
Yeah, I repeat.
Cllr Abdul Wahid - 1:28:49
How do you think a Lido in Victoria Park would best serve the needs of local residents compared
to existing facilities therein?
Public Speaker - 1:29:01
Yeah, so something like a Lido and something as simple as swimming is a sport that can
be accessible for all people, all backgrounds, all ages to be honest with you.
Not everyone is accessible to or maybe willing to do a sport like tennis for example, that
is in Victoria Park, or there's a running track.
Everybody may be willing to or wanting to access such a sport or physically have the
ability to do it.
So something like swimming and a Lido, sometimes people just want to go to the Lido and sit
It is a kind of
recreational activity
that is welcoming
for everybody.
It will complement
and attract
new visitors
and bring more
visitors
to the local
borough.
I essentially
bring investment
to the borough
because people
from other areas
will want to
come and visit
Victoria Park.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
APPLAUSE
Thank you very much.
To conclude this item, does Councillor Kamil Husein,
committee member for Counter -regeneration,
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:30:02
wish to address the meeting in response to the petition?
You have two minutes.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, petitioner.
Cllr Kamrul Hussain - 1:30:11
The council recognises that there is an existing lido
at London Fields, which is a short distance away
from Victoria Park.
The council needs to ensure it spans its resources
within the Best Value Framework.
The Council is currently committed to redeveloping
the St. George's Leisure Centre and a new wet and dry
leisure centre in Whitechapel.
This will require significant capital funding and have
been brought forward based on strategic leisure needs
assessment that recommends these two projects be prioritised.
However, an open -air swimming pool would be a great addition to our healthy and affordable
leisure options in the borough.
Going forward, this would need to be fully costed and be economically sustainable.
I'm happy to hold a meeting with yourself, the petitioners and the head of service to
find out more about these ideas.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
That concludes the item.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:31:27
The petition stands to refer to the corporate director for communities for a written response
within 20 years.
Thank you very much.
We move to agenda item 6, the Mayor's report.

6 MAYOR'S REPORT

I call upon Mayor Luther Rahman to give his report to Council.
You have six minutes.
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Greetings or peace to each and every one of you.
Mayor Lutfur Rahman - 1:31:52
Eid Mubarak to you all.
First of all, I want to thank our officers for their dedication, commitment and willingness
to go the extra mile in delivering real change in our borough.
Thank you for your kind help.
Four years, ladies and gentlemen, has gone by a blink of an eye.
I would like to take a few moments to outline some of the key deliveries that this authority,
this council has produced over the last four years.
It hasn't been easy.
When this administration entered office, we found a council that was not living up to
its full potential.
It was a council that had weak governance, a little to no service delivery beyond the
statutory requirements. Inspections were being periodically failed,
offstead, youth justice, CQC to name but a few, and residents felt disheartened. They
wanted change, that they felt they were being ignored. For a long and difficult process,
we have corrected many of those failings. We are strengthening governance. We have completed
the six years of unsigned accounts left behind by the previous administration.
We have paid back the £1 million unpaid VAT also left behind by them.
We have published the five years of annual governance statements that they failed to
sign off.
We are strengthening our procurement policies to prevent contracts in some instances from
ballooning from £6 to £62 million as they were allowed to under the previous administration.
And we have returned to a three year cycle of budgeting that means we can plan for tomorrow
while delivering for today. And they have the audacity, some of them, to criticise our
record in office. There is still a long way to go and room for improvement absolutely
as with any large organisation of our size.
And I'm grateful to the timeless work that has gone in from officers across the Council,
as well as support from administration to ensure these positive changes have now began to take effect.
The most important change that we can now deliver for the residents of this great borough,
the people who matter the most.
Public service is my passion, it's my dedication, commitment.
Serving timeless residents, the whole 340 ,000 people is the greatest privilege of my life.
And thanks to the changes we have made over the last four years, we have been able to
deliver some of the most transformative and groundbreaking policy and services anywhere
in the UK. No longer is money just tucked away at the cost of our residents. We have
continued into the long term. This means our investment into the community over the past
four years can continue to be funded and maintained as long as we are in administration. It means
that we can continue to build more family sized homes, affordable homes, tackling our
waiting list and addressing the social and health inequalities associated with overcrowding.
I am delighted to announce that the Corporate Director of Housing and Regional Education
has confirmed that we will deliver some 6 ,441 affordable homes by the end of our four -year
term.
This surpasses our initial target by nearly 2 ,500 homes.
They can laugh, they don't want to hear the truth.
It means we can continue to invest over £600 million into bringing all our council homes
to up to the highest standards and safety. All our existing housing stock will receive
new double glazed windows, front doors, kitchens and bathrooms right before. It means we can
continue to deliver free hot school meals for every single child in both primary and
secondary schools in our parlour. It means that we can continue to provide educational
maintenance allowance and university bursaries, preparing our children for the future. It
also means that all women, men over 35 and parents and children will continue to access
free swimming sessions, bettering their physical and mental health. It means that we can continue
to spend nearly £14 million a year on our youth services, one youth centre in every
single ward. Twenty have already been delivered. It means we can continue to provide free home
care to the most vulnerable in our community, our parents. It also means that we can continue
to invest in the best resources from police and townhouse enforcement officers to CCTV
equipment to keep residents safe in their homes and on the borough streets and estates.
By 2028, ladies and gentlemen, this council will have invested an additional £250 million
in addition to the statutory requirements in our communities and our residents. Our
Yes, they are our passion and we will continue to deliver for them.
Thank you.
Thank you very much.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:37:42
Councillor Sirajul Islam, lead member of the Labour group, would you like to respond to
Mayor's report?
You have two minutes to do so.
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
and peace and blessings to you all and related Eid Mubarak.
Cllr Sirajul Islam - 1:37:58
So on the day of Eid, I received a present from our mayor.
I don't know if other people have received it.
And that was my 5 % increase council tax bill.
So thank you, Mr. Mayor.
So, Mr. Speaker.
So, Mr. Speaker, I'd like to start
by condemning the anti -Semitic arson committed
against Haczola ambulances in Golders Green.
In October, we marked the 90th anniversary
of Battle of Cable Street when the anti -fascist
of this borough stood up to Oswald Mosdie's black shirts.
Our borough has seen its fair share of hate.
Many in here remember the National Front
and what it looked like on our streets.
Once upon a time, we were very difficult to go to play
in the park or even go to the shops.
We're made to feel threatened within our communities.
More recently, we faced organised attempts by UKIP to try and intimidate our communities,
just as mostly did, over those years ago, and we did not let them.
As we mark the blessed month of Ramadan, the community iftar to Fakaz Trafalgar Square
was banned in an attempt to dominate and declared un -English by Conservative Shadow Cabinet
member.
Jurist Londoners came out to support our faith in response, noting that an attack on one
of us and an attack on all.
which is why this evening I took place on record on behalf of my group a
condemnation of the attack on those ambulances and the Jewish community.
This borough and this chamber would always be united against fascism and forces of hate.
Now I want to respond briefly to the mayor's report, not to dispute every item
but to offer some context that I suspect this update didn't include.
Because here is the thing about four years in office, every administration can find
things to point to.
Road to the surface, grants awarded, announcements made.
This is what four years in power looks like and this administration is no different.
The questions residents should be asking is whether there's anything happening, whether
the people in charge deserve the credit, but the full picture is being shared.
Mr Speaker, I have a lot more to say, but I'll do that in my motion speech, but thank
you for the opportunity.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr Loughlin.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:40:15
Can you please do not make any sound from the public gallery shouting at the councillors.
We are not here to hear you. We are not here to hear you. Please, if you continue to do that, I will be forced to remove you. Thank you.
May I let Rohan would you like to respond? You have two minutes to do so. Thank you.
Thank you. I do want to respond. I'm glad that I was able to give Councillor Shira's
Mayor Lutfur Rahman - 1:40:48
way a present once in a while. I'm very happy. I'm very happy.
Council tax has only been increased by 3 .99%, ladies and gentlemen.
And even then, the other 1 % is for adult social care. We have to do it.
But let me say this to him. Those who are earning less than £50 ,350 are protected from
the increase. He's earning a lot of money, therefore he should pay council tax. Right
to be said. Right to be said. And I echo the same sentiments. I was very sad, disappointed
wanted to see the arson attack on those ambulances. There is no room for hate in our communities.
There's no room for any kind of hatred anywhere in the country. I also condemned and I condemn
hatred anywhere in the country. Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:41:50
Thank you very much.
We move to agenda item 7 now.
Agenda item 7 is the motion for debate submitted by the administration.
The debate will follow the rules of debate and council procedure,
rule 13, and will last no more than 30 minutes.

7 ADMINISTRATION MOTION DEBATE

Can I just, in addition to that, please, can I just remind all the audience in the public
gallery, please remain quiet while you, while the debate is going on and do not disturb
the conversation, the speaker, we are here to deliver you very valuable, important stuff
that we're dealing with.
So please do not disturb or do not huckle from the public gallery.
Thank you.
can I just ask Councillor Mayim Talibdar, can you please move your motion as set out
in the agenda?
You have four minutes to do so, thank you.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Maium Talukdar - 1:43:33
I could spend hours talking about the Mayor's achievement and what the Aspire administration
has delivered over the last four years. However, the time is limited so I will stick to my
portfolio role as a lead member for education, youth and lifelong learning. So our mission
has been to support and empower young people. We always believe that brightest, the best
live in Tower Hamlets and their background should not prevent them from reaching the
highest heights.
After seven years of cuts, disappear and lack of opportunity, we have begun a journey of
significant transformation that is benefiting and will continue to benefit our borough's
children.
All receive free school meals, a healthy and nutritious meals, fuels their mind and gives
them energy to pursue their dreams.
All have access to state of the art youth services,
20 youth centres, supporting education,
social and employment skills.
Now stand proudly across this borough,
where before our youngest were forced into streets,
where devil makes work for idle hands.
The most vulnerable have access to free school uniform
at reception age year seven.
This keeps money in their parents' pockets while keeping them warm and comfortable in
classrooms.
Those who wish to pursue further education but don't have the means to do so can access
EMA bursaries.
We are proud over 5 ,000 have received this support and we look forward to seeing the
next Prime Minister, the next judges and many more from this borough.
Mr Speaker, those who require additional support receives it through our expanded SEND support
schemes. The demands of their needs are longer left to their parents who try as they might
not have resources, time or money to give them best of both care that they need. And
as rated by Hosted.
I'm proud of this council and I'm proud of our
Children's Services workforce led by Steve Reddy.
These are but some of the groundbreaking and
life -changing services that we have delivered and
will continue to deliver for the young people
of Tower Hamlets.
Under this administration, the future is bright for
young people of Tower Hamlets.
I would like to thank the Mayor for his steadfast
commitment to those future generations and my corporate director Steve Reddy and his
team for the tireless work to make this idea a reality for the residents of this borough.
And finally, Mr Speaker, we know the election is coming up and the people of this borough
will decide to vote for which mayor, which councillors, based on track record. And I
I am proud to say, as first Trump report will speak,
the resident of this borough will give the verdict
on the 7th of May, 2026, inshallah,
with a fumping majority,
with the mayoral and fumping majority.
Thank you very much.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:47:04
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you, Councillor.
Thank you.
Can I call upon Councillor Said Ahmad to second the motion?
Cllr Saied Ahmed - 1:47:20
You have also three minutes. Thank you. Thank you. Mr. Speaker. I formally second the motion by reserve my right to speak towards the end of the debate. That's all right
Thank you
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:47:25
Thank you, I've got some names here can I ask
There's any and if this any members on this side
Thank you.
Can I ask Councillor Abutale and Choudry first please.
Thank you Mr Speaker.
Cllr Abu Talha Chowdhury - 1:47:56
Today Tawa Hamlet is a safer place under AASPIRE compared to the seven years under the previous
Labour administration.
This isn't just what the lead member for Community Safety thinks, but it's what residents have
told us year on year as part of our annual resident survey.
The latest survey results, which are available for anyone to see online, say that women who
say they feel safe at night is up by 6 % from last year.
Residents who say drugs is a problem in the area
is down by 5%.
Antisocial behaviour has gone down by 6%.
With our rates of ASP now 60 % below COVID highs
and 30 % below pre -COVID rate,
when the party opposite were in power.
Police recorded ASP has fallen
for the third consecutive year,
making Tower Hamlets one of the few high demand boroughs
to achieve year on year reductions.
This just doesn't happen by coincidence.
Let's do a bit of us and them.
In our first budget, we tripled the size of our enforcement team.
Labour were happy with 24 officers, but we took it to 64,
recruiting 40 additional uniform officers.
We also took national leadership by creating the first local authority drug squad in the UK,
which took our serial numbers to more than 70, compared to 24 under Labour.
Dare I forget, they cut 10 CEO posts in 2016 and 2017 and more in 2021 and 2022.
Next we set our sights on investing in police.
This administration funds 26 police officers, which made 415 arrests since 2022.
That's 415 arrests that wouldn't have been possible without this administration's funding.
Their record is cutting funding for 20 police officers in 2016 and 2017 and a police partnership
post the following year. Perhaps our biggest investment has been pouring nearly £8 million
in CCTV. We replaced 350 street cameras and built a new state -of -the -art CCTV control
room in 2024. By the end of this year, we will have installed an additional 400 cameras
on 26 council estates, replaced 353 40 cameras inside 25 council blocks, 30 cameras in and
around our leisure centres and many more across parts of our borough. Taking our total investment
to instal and replace nearly 1 ,000 cameras in the borough.
In seven years, I don't think they even replaced one.
We've opened 20 youth centres when they closed nearly all.
We installed six knife bins and collected more than 3 ,000 knives
whilst they had no amnesty initiatives.
We increased numbers in treatment while their numbers
were dwindling.
We introduced a 24 -7 ASB telephone line when they
expected people to report it online.
We will soon be opening a drug recovery service which they
closed and we invested in a new job unit that they can even think about. By now I think everyone is getting the picture. In my
estimation, Aspire has invested more than any other London authority in community
safety over four years and this work needs to continue beyond May 26.
Otherwise what's the alternative? Labour, who cut services for seven years and put
mine and your safety at risk or the independents who have no track record in
running this council. Ladies and gentlemen if you and your families really want to
a safer borough there's only one choice and that's a fire.
Can I call Councillor Amy Lee please.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:51:16
Cllr Amy Lee - 1:51:19
Sorry I wasn't expecting that it's not quite the right order I think but I
Can I take Councillor Als's mic?
Yes, that's fine by me.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:51:31
Cllr Amy Lee - 1:51:34
I'll just go off because we've wasted a lot of time already as usual.
Thank you. I'm going to start on a point of consensus, which would be nice,
which is I'm sure that we all want to express our thanks to the officers.
Officers of this council are dedicated and hard working and nothing happens without them.
So I'm sure that's a point we can all agree on, is that we all thank officers for everything that they do.
But, on to this motion. There was a bit missing, I think.
And as you know, this is my last meeting.
So this also presents a bit of an opportunity for me to talk about some of my personal highlights from the past four years.
So here we go.
So there's a few.
The council having to pay damages to a strip club owner who claimed he was approached for a bribe.
50 grand on a table and chairs for the mayor's office that should have been a staff canteen.
Removing a school street in the dark of night because they were terrified of protesting primary school children.
Avoiding scrutiny on social care contracts worth almost £200 million.
How did that go? Really badly.
The classic Councillor earning an SRO whilst not even living in this country.
And a government intervention that's costing tax payers millions
because this Council can't be trusted to manage itself.
All of those things didn't seem to make it into the motion.
Must have slipped somebody's mind.
But look, I do want to be serious.
This is a good council.
This is a good council and I think there is a lot for us all to be really, really proud of.
But in my experience this council is let down and it's been let down over the past four years
because it is governed by fragile egos, by an obsessive desire to avoid criticism, which is just unnecessary.
Criticism is a part of life.
It is actually our job. It's why we're here and we should be allowed to do that job without intimidation, frankly.
The political toxicity of this council is genuine. I think it's a tragedy because it lets us down.
It lets everyone in this room down. It lets our officers down. We're thanking the officers. They're let down by it.
And it lets our residents down. Most residents want nothing from their council other than good services.
They don't want all of this. They don't want the drama. They don't want it.
As I said, I'm not going to be here next term so I can offer a tiny bit of advice.
Some humility, some honesty, some genuine honesty.
Forget the spin, it's not needed.
This council is a good council, it does good work.
We don't need this obsessive spin, it's bizarre.
Drop the drama and the pettiness, frankly.
And look, do what's right for this borough.
Do what's right always, even if it doesn't benefit you.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Cllr Kabir Ahmed - 1:54:47
Thank you Mr Speaker. We end another four years today of full council meetings and it's
interesting how certain interventions are named and it seems like certain political
parties feel that you can clap with one hand, but political toxicity comes when both sides
are throwing spanners into the works. And I can say I have certainly tried not to throw
spanners. However, the last few council meetings, last few council meetings it's been terrible
how certain members stand up and do as they please, other members walk out whenever they
want. Total disrespect for this council. Right now on my portfolio issues, well
what I can say is what we inherited in terms of the disaster around housing
management, it's no wonder we're having to spend over 600 half a billion pounds
in order to bring housing standards back up. The lack of management, the lack of
that and once we carried out the surveys we did the self referral to the housing regulators.
Could we have done it quicker? Probably, but we really needed it diagnosed. And guess what?
It was the housing regulators who actually commended us when we gave that report the
diagnostic as well as the fix with that report. And yes, it will take some time. In relation
to auditors, the external auditors, the Council's accounts, yes absolutely, they were in disrepair
and accounts hadn't been signed off for over six years. However, we are now on course in
order to get this stuff lined up because the governance is being put in and guess what
the auditors said, they need to see it embedded in. Embedded in takes time because year on
submitting of accounts isn't going to do it. In terms of strengthening of governance, in terms
of strengthening of contracts, yes we absolutely need to do it because in 2018 some members of
staff could make million pound payments to themselves or whatever it was. There's
investigations going on regarding that and that's from 2018. If we look at social care contracts,
they balloon from five million to sixty million and this council doesn't know where the contracts
So these are some of the issues that we adopted when we came here.
These are some of the stuff that we uncovered and these are some of the stuff that we are
challenging in order to turn around.
In terms of decent home standards, this isn't something that happens overnight, Mr Speaker.
This was lack of underinvestment year on year and this is the first time that this council
has spent over half a billion pound investing in residents, investing in fire safety and
building safety in decent homes. This is the commitment that this Aspire administration
makes for residents.
Thank you. Thank you.
Councillor Ohi Dahmo, please.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 1:58:03
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Ohid Ahmed - 1:58:05
Just this is again my last day of the full council meeting.
I think I'm just trying to retire because I just trying
to come up from this sort of drama, trying to save my time
and trying to give more time to my family.
I was really, really quite frustrated with some
of the people's lecture from the opposition.
If there is a dark day, if there is difficulties in the previous time, they will hide.
They will go to the bridge, they will go to the cheap world, they will go to Dubai.
But we are the people who always lived in this bar and are going to live in this bar.
And we are going to fight any kinds of difficulties our people face in this bar.
Mr Speaker, I can spend hours criticising the administration's failures.
And I don't want to do that. I just want to say a few words.
And I will speak plainly.
The way our residents speak to us on the doorstep,
tonight we have been asked to celebrate four years of this administration.
But honestly, what exactly are we celebrating?
Parliament is struggling.
We are facing some of the highest levels of poverty in the entire country.
Families are suffering.
People feel unsaid.
Residents tell us their lives are getting harder.
Instead of solutions, they are given slogans.
Residents were promised council tax freeze.
Instead, they got 20%, approximately 20 % increase.
They were promised protection during cost of living crisis.
Instead, council rents went up by nearly 26%.
At a time when people are living day to day,
the administration made life even harder.
And let's think about the people who keep the bars running.
The residents surviving on universal credit,
the minicab drivers, Uber drivers, delivery workers,
carers and all those earning just above
the benefit threshold.
They are hardworking people.
They are not asking for luxury.
Just fairness they are asking for.
Some of the council are in senior position
once lived the same life.
They know how hard it is.
They may not be struggling now, but they should still show
some empathy towards colleagues and their residents
who are actually struggling.
And I want to say something very personal and very important.
I created Aspire.
I helped build the movement.
I struggled for many years helping it, helping it,
helping it to serve our most deprived communities
and give people a real voice. But we failed. And because we failed, we had no choice but
to resign from the cabinet. And at the end, only decent way to leave this chamber was
to also resign from the very party that I and few other sitting in here built it. It
is painful, but this is the truth, Mr Speaker. And let me say this clearly. When council
fail, the governor steps in. That is how the system works.
Barbeena intervention, Nottingham intervention, Slough intervention, all with no warning.
And all make a trial over time. Mr Speaker, every day we talk on this, we are facing a
serious trial over time.
Please, thank you.
Don't get excited.
But Mr Speaker, please, please, you must be, you must be, you are well over time.
You should be fair to everyone.
Councillor Lecce, please can you sit down, your time is up, thank you very much.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:01:50
Can I take Abdulullah please, here.
Cllr Abdal Ullah - 2:02:03
Thank you Mr. Speaker. Let's just start by saying four years when this borough
should have been the beacon, when we had the royal visit not once twice to
showcase, glorify the beautiful work, the contribution. We talked about Derek Cox
earlier. People like that who make this borough a safe place for the British
Bangladeshi. But in that four years what have we seen? This mayor has brought shame
to this borough. The mainstream media see this as a basket case. They see this mayor
bringing dishonour when he was kicked out of the office in 2015. You open any front
page, this mayor has bought the UKIP back. It wasn't Labour administration, it's this
mayor. These frontbenchers who read from what they've been given, the ones at the back,
read from what they've been written. Mr Speaker, let me start again. If you want me to start
again I'll start again. You will only do one going please keep keep keep going thank you.
Okay thank you Mr. Speaker. When when my Councillor Sheeran said on each day that he received the gift
my residents in Wapping received not one not two but three letters saying their prices have gone up.
The use misuse of public funds I know this council and this administration has bought the mouthpiece
of some of the Bengali journalists but hasn't bought the mouthpiece of everyone. There are people
out there fully aware of what's going on in this council. If they want to celebrate, let's
talk about some of the highlights that they are sort of emitting from their own press
releases. The shape that has brought to this council, the envoys have come as spending
your taxpayers' money, the Republic's taxpayer money, to make them look good. They talk about
the unsigned accounts. It was only the last council in the budget I raised the issue about
the Canary Wolf grant not being signed. Guess what they do? They put on a fake launch. They
doesn't need a launch, this trust has been in operation for over 30 years. They just
failed to do the account for two years. This is some of the highlights that we need to
tell the people that on the 7th of May, don't just be fooled by free swimming. People are
drowning in bills. People are drowning with council tax, service charge, rent hike. All
they want to do is give you swimming. Maybe the mayor wants to go and swim in another
I've been told that he's now bought a very luxurious house
where he has a swimming pool in his property.
But do not feed two swimming pools, one for himself and one for his granddaughter.
Bless him.
What I will say this to you Mr. Speaker,
Mr. Mayor, people are not buying it.
Yes, you came in, the emotion, your kind of sympathy, empathy
that you put to the community has now gone away.
People will judge you on your failed promises, your broken promises,
and the fact that you let the people of Ta 'amless, let me remind you this, the good people of Ta 'amless,
the 70 % who do not vote for Aspire, they've woken up, they've seen what you've done,
they've seen how you misuse the money, they've seen who you've given jobs to,
they've seen the lack of accountability, transparency, and on the 7th of May, they will make their voices heard.
Thank you very much.
Thank you Councillor.
Thank you Councillor.
We just want to be going next to Savina please.
Councillor Savina.
Yay!
She's got one!
Cllr Shafi Ahmed - 2:05:15
She's got a choice.
Four years ago the people of Tower Hamlets made a clear choice.
They chose Aspire, they chose Change and
Cllr Sabina Akhtar - 2:05:27
And later on, so did I.
With our members in the chamber, we continue to make the wrong choices and mislead the public and with the misinformation.
I can proudly say today, I stand here today with no excuses, not with slogans, but with a team with a record.
A record of action, a record of delivery and a record of putting residents first.
We said we would build affordable homes and we have.
We said we would invest in our communities and we have.
We said we would protect frontline services and we have.
From restoring education maintenance allows and
universities, investing in youth services,
reintroducing Meals on Wheels and the Winterfield support,
and providing free home care.
No one in the country is providing free home care to the
most vulnerable youth.
We've got dedicated support and space for women aged over 16.
We've got the NARES Centre in Vallance Road.
We've got a new youth centre in St. Pouzoue, Furthermore, free swimming for women.
We are listening to the voices of women for the work of the Women's Commission
and are pleased to be part of it.
Many of our services have been really there to build the intervention
and put money back into the pockets of working families.
Our TH children's services achieved an outstanding
off -stead rating and our recent secrecy rating was good.
These are examples of achievements that we should
celebrate and support the most vulnerable residents
in our borough.
Not headlines, not spins, just deliveries.
Now we give unusual noise from opposition, criticism
without accountability, without outrage as well,
and without alternatives.
But do remember residents will record and vote on our track record.
So when we are asked where is your delivery and what are your achievements, what is your
accountability, we can proudly say, you know, we've not just made words but we've tracked
delivery over the last four years.
We work to communities not against them.
We listened and we actioned.
We made tough decisions through good leadership that we've had.
And yes again, I repeat, we've been fired and I'm relieved that I do not have to be defending all the cuts, cuts, cuts.
But we are not finished because Aspire is not about the last four years, it's about the future, a future where Tower Hamlets continues to thrive.
A future built on fairness, opportunity and respect for every resident.
So all to those oppositions, once you continue playing politics, we will continue to deliver to the borough for the most of the residents.
Because at the end of the day it's not about winning arguments in this chamber, it's about supporting lives outside the chamber.
And that is exactly what we will be doing under administration of Aspire.
Mayor Louz Rahman, Deputy Mayor, the whole team and the dedicated hard workers are officers.
Cllr Shafi Ahmed - 2:08:24
Thank you very much.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:08:33
Natalie, can I ask Natalie Bjornfid please for your comments.
I actually integrated my
goodbye speech into this
Cllr Peter Golds - 2:08:40
speech because that is why I
understood what was happening.
I will start with the
Aspire's record.
Cllr Nathalie Bienfait - 2:08:45
It is no secret.
I think there are some
positive things that Aspire
have done.
I really like the
investor -safe mindset.
The
investor -safe mindset is
really
powerful and using our
comparatively strong
financial position to
prioritise anti -poverty
measures is laudable.
But there are also disappointments in Aspire.
The lack of diversity among their councillors is not
just disappointing, it's dangerous for those who are
not in the fold.
In my view, the administration still does
not properly understand the experiences of disabled
people and women, and that is evident in their
policymaking.
For example, the Women's Commission, it's great that
it's happening, but it must be embedded into the mayor's
policy -making pipeline for it actually to have an impact.
The mayor should also make accessibility for all residents a priority across the borough,
and the mayor must also do much more to protect all of us from the dangers on our roads which
come from vehicles.
That includes isolation, inactivity, air pollution, and the encroachment on our public space.
So I hope this speech is a good example of how or what in my role as councillor I've
I've always tried to give credit and challenge where it's due.
I've always tried to act fairly, consistently,
and respectfully to everyone.
And if you don't already know, I'm
standing down at the election, as I feel it's now time for me
to move on and make way for the next generation of Green
Councillors and Tower Hamlets.
It's a big change for me, not just because I'm
leaving my role as a Councillor, but I'm also leaving London,
which has been my home for nearly 10 years.
It is a cliche, but this has been the greatest privilege of my life and also the greatest
challenge.
My election was significant for me, for my party and for the Council.
I was 26 when I was elected and I was elected the first Green to this Council.
Some said I was too young, but I think I was certainly ready for the challenge.
I'd like to thank everyone who has supported me during my term.
First of all, the residents of Bow West for backing me.
The officers of the council, the work that you do means that we can serve our communities
to the highest standard we can collectively.
My fellow councillors, it's been a mixed bag, but I certainly leave this chamber with more
friends than when I arrived.
My family and friends who have supported me through a lot, and finally of course the Green
Party.
If I've got time, can I, maybe I'll, do I, Mr. Speaker, sorry, can I just, okay, so my
highlights from my time as a Councillor has been supporting countless residents trying
to get the support that they need in a world which is becoming more and more complex and
challenging.
My scrutiny reports on road danger, net zero and flood risk, and as difficult as it was
personally, standing up to and defending our borough in the face of anti -immigration protests.
Tower Hamlets of course will always hold a very special place in my heart.
Thank you Mr Speaker.
As we have run out of time, we have run out of time.
Can I just move to Councillor Syed please?
Thank you Mr Speaker.
Cllr Saied Ahmed - 2:12:10
This administration, four years ago when we came into office, we faced a daunting task.
We had seven years of labour austerity and cuts to key services.
As a lead member for resources, I found myself walking into a council that was in a complete financial disarray.
Accounts had been unsigned for half a decade, VAT had gone unpaid, accruals and prepayments, basic accounting principles were not completed.
Crucial council assets have been sold off for pennies and pounds.
And a sea of consultants were raking in a thousand pounds a day,
while investment to fight poverty was cut to the bone all under the watch of the previous administration.
So how do we transform Te Awa Hamlets back into a borough that invests in the residents and takes care of the most vulnerable?
How do we deliver this transformation in a way that is both quick and financially viable?
The first steps we've done was to front load investment.
Front load in the first year that we had no choice but to draw down from reserves.
My Labour colleagues will talk about how this is something financially irresponsible.
But do they not know that this is what we have to do because of their failures?
We had to allow our front line services to prevail and not to fail and make sure that
Our residents don't suffer since 2016 under their watch.
Well, rather than following their footsteps,
we took a little bit of the reserves
and we made sure that investment
went into the people of this borough.
That money went towards bringing back university bursaries,
Meals on Wheels, the EMA, and all the crucial programmes
that support the people of this borough,
that Labour decided to cut.
It went towards becoming the first borough
to provide free school meals
for primary and secondary school kids.
Also about free school uniforms.
It went towards over 10 million pounds of cost of living support payments.
When the national government decided to cut winter fuel payments,
that money went towards keeping our most vulnerable
elderly residents comfortable and alive.
Whilst the last administration outsourced many
of the crucial frontline services, we got them in -house
and we put money into youth services, leisure services
and the council's housing stock.
A lot has been said about council tax.
So much so let me just remind my colleagues of our manifesto
On our manifesto here we did only to remind us about freezing council tax here. It says clearly it's about protecting protecting the poorest of
Number one here is to make sure that we freeze council tax of four years to protect who
Continue it's one sentence with a comma
We are here to protect the poorest of all, to protect those who earn less than 50 ,000 ,000 ,300 euros.
We are here to protect millionaires and MPs of the opposition party. We are here to protect the people of Israel.
Thank you, Councillor. Thank you very much.
I would now ask Councillor Mayim Talibda to please introduce your three minutes.
No matter how much Neluthur Rahman delivers for this borough, they won't like him.
No!
Cllr Maium Talukdar - 2:15:32
They hate him. Do you know why, Mr Speaker, they hate him?
Because the labour machine, they have been after him since 2008.
Again and again, one man defeats the whole labour machine.
That's why!
And let me tell you why. And let me tell you why.
We have so much support from the community of Tamar Hamlets
because of its track record, because of its delivery.
And let me tell you to the opposition councillors what we're celebrating today.
We're celebrating the most ambitious delivery, the most ambitious programme
that we've delivered in the whole country.
No other council has delivered such programme.
We are the best in the country.
Mr. Speaker, let me tell you what we're celebrating.
Over 32 ,000 young people have been supported every year through our youth service.
This is what we're doing.
Over 38 ,000 people are receiving universal free school meals.
Thank you.
Over 5 ,000 young people...
Can we just pause for a minute please?
Sorry.
Members, can I all ask you to please be quiet and let the Speaker speak.
Thank you very much.
Shupriya Iqbal - 2:16:57
I explained the rules at the beginning, so please don't speak, allow the Speaker to complete
his comments.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Cllr Maium Talukdar - 2:17:05
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
So, over 5 ,000 young people have been supported through the EMA and Bursary grants.
Over 21 ,000 children have been supported with the uniform grant.
That's why the people of this Tara, they love Ritur Rahman.
And that's why here, Mr. Speaker, the free home care, the free swimming for women and men,
20 ,000 people have benefited from the free swimming,
and 80 % of those are women.
And obviously, the children's service that they destroyed,
this is why I'm standing.
And social care, as you've heard, we're excellent, we're good.
So that's why it's because of our track record,
because of Luthu Rahman's track record, Mr Speaker,
The people of Al -Tahamtullah will elect him again May 23rd.
Thank you very much.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:18:11
Thank you.
Thank you.
Please be quiet. This is not acceptable. Please, thank you.
Thank you.
Shupriya Iqbal - 2:18:30
This is a reminder to members of the public in the public gallery, please do not shout
out or disturb the meeting.
If you continue, the speaker may ask for you to be removed.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Thank you, thank you, Supriya.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:18:41
Can the head of the democratic services now conduct the votes, please?
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
So there are no amendments to this so it's straight up and down.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 2:18:53
All those in favour please show your hands.
Please keep them up as I'm just checking on numbers.
All those against.
Next.
And abstentions.
Okay, so that is carried then.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:19:35
Thank you very much.
Thank you, Matthew.
We now move to item 8.
Is the opposition motion for debate.

8 OPPOSITION MOTION DEBATE

The debate will follow the rules of debate at Council procedure rules 13 and will last
no more than 30 minutes.
Proposed amendments to this motion have been published.
There are no amendments.
So...
Okay.
Councillor, can you please move your motion?
You have four minutes.
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Sirajul Islam - 2:20:34
so I want to begin by saying something that I mean genuinely and not as a
political formality. I love this borough, I have served this borough as a
councillor for over 20 years. I've watched it change beyond recognition in
so many ways for the better. Trahamd is one of the most remarkable places in
England, its most resilient, its community is extraordinary, its history one of the
welcome solidarity and ambition in the face of real hardship. This is why I'm
I'm moving this motion today, not out of political point scoring, but because the people of this borough, our residents, our constituents deserve better from this administration that they got.
And before they vote in May, they deserve to know the full picture.
Let me start with what is in some ways the hardest thing to say plainly in this chamber.
In November 2024, the government found this council, our council,
to be failing its best value duty, not on a technicality,
nor on a footnote on governance, leadership, culture, and partnership.
Inspectors found evidence of cultural patronage in appointments.
This is second strategy intervention in a decade,
and both occasion the same mayor, Mayor Muthul Rahman.
By January 2026, the government was no longer content to wait
around to get its act together.
It imposed a new improvement board appointed by the Envos, not by the Mayor.
It authorised reserve powers, orders deep -diving investigation in the Mayor's
own office, into grant making, into housing allocation, into planning decisions.
The Envos had a name for what they found optimism bias, making plans for more
plans for residents weighted to real improvements. The Secretary of State
judgement was ambiguous, the Hamdas Council not improving fast enough.
Our reserves, the financial safety net to protect residents when things go wrong, has
seen 42 % reduction.
This Council's own external auditor's EY has formally flagged material concerns about financial
management and governance.
Secretary of State's assessment was equally blunt.
Financial mismanagement is deteriorating.
The Mayor published residents' four -year Council tax freeze.
He broke it in two years.
He broke it again in three years and again in four years.
Ban D household paid over £500 more than they were told they would pay.
Council rents also rose by 25 % over the same period.
I've got another present from the Mayor, my rent bill.
At the same time the Mayor has been spending £450 ,000 refurbishing the office suite he
kicked our staff out of, spending £50 ,000 on a single meeting table and luxury church.
He promised one thing and he was doing another.
The mayor scrapped the project that communities actually planned.
The George Green School rebuilt, stopped, breached,
bankrupt library, neighbour's hill scheme that residents themselves had chosen.
Gone without consultation, gone without apology.
Almost 29 ,000 households on the waiting list.
More than 13 ,000 overcrowded, over 3 ,000 temporary accommodation,
the average wait for one bedroom home is more than 2 ,000 days,
the second longest in London.
The mayor promised 4 ,000 homes social rent,
social and 4 ,000 homes, not this affordable private sector, Section 106.
His delivery is in the hundreds.
His flagship development vehicle, which was supposed to deliver thousands of homes on
council land, produced no tangible progress, nothing after four years.
The marsh wall, Mr Speaker, his aspire council approved a 46 -storey tower with zero affordable
housing.
Shame, they waived their own 35 % quota.
278 homes that could have gone to families on the list gone,
to allow a developer to be luxury flat
and which we believe they insist on 50%.
And on the housing regulator, graded as C3 last spring,
serious failings, 31 % of our council homes not meeting
decent home standards.
2 ,241 overdue fire safety action,
tenant safety satisfaction at 63%.
The promised gold standard survey,
this is what residents got.
16 Labour councillors opposition chamber for four years.
We have asked the question, we have raised the alarm, we have challenged the speech and
we have been ignored, dismissed and accused of bad faith.
Mr Speaker, just to finish off, free swimming is something that they talk about.
We're certain this administration is in the deep end and you're the ones who are going
to be trouble swimming out on 6th or 7th of May and your residents will see to that.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I call upon,
I call upon Councillor Mark Francis to second the motion.
You have three minutes.
Thank you.
Yes, please.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:25:07
Cllr Marc Francis - 2:25:15
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:25:19
Cllr Marc Francis - 2:25:27
Mr Matthew Mannion - 2:25:29
Cllr Marc Francis - 2:25:33
Mr Speaker, I have now served as a Councillor here for nearly 20 years.
When I was first elected in 2006, Tower Hamlets Council was widely respected across the local
government sector and in Whitehall.
Talented public servants were attracted to come here to deliver progressive and ground -breaking
new services to our residents.
And while there was rightly some dissatisfaction about particular policies, the council was
generally seen as a positive force by its residents too.
Mr Speaker, as a result of the political choices the mayor has made between 2010 and 15 and
again over the last four years, Townhamlet's council is now considered to be a basket case.
That view is held not just in Whitehall and across local government but across many of
its own residents as well.
In fact, many residents have much stronger words than that.
In 2014 this authority was deemed to have misused public money, assets and publicity
to such an extent that commissioners were sent in to run it.
The Mayor obviously wasn't around then because he'd been removed.
Mr Speaker, I believe in redemption and the Mayor had a golden opportunity to redeem himself
following his election in 2022.
He won the mayoral contest decisively and he had a mandate.
But we agree with some of the investments he has made but we also recognise that they
have been paid for by this Labour government.
150 million pounds investment by this Labour government.
And we've never heard a word of this
from the mayor or his team.
And we've never heard any admission of guilt
or at least acknowledgement of error from their team either.
Instead he's chosen the same path he chose back in 2013.
He clearly believes the rules of democracy
and local government don't apply to him.
That's why this authority under his leadership
has become the first English council ever
to have commissioners sent in to run it twice.
For two years he and those around him have denied the obvious and made a pretence at
changing their ways.
But everyone with eyes can see that what's going on here, a council within a council,
serious governance failings, significant weaknesses, a culture of patronage, not my words, the
words of external independent experts.
In these circumstances the Secretary of State clearly had no alternative but to send the
to give the envoys additional powers.
This matters because while the Mayor and those around him have been focused on covering up
their failings, basic services have deteriorated.
At the same time residents are paying nearly 20 % more in council tax and 25 % more in rent.
The promises he made have turned to dust.
Waste emergencies, new council homes, council tax, relief funds, these things are mythical.
Mr Speaker, I know the commissioners will use their new powers sparingly, but it is
clear that the mayor's power is draining away.
His power to award grants, his power to allow or deny the use of public buildings and land,
his power to withhold information from opposition councillors and the public, his power to appoint
people to roles when their only qualification is their loyalty to him, his power to order
publicity promoting this deed to the public all gone on this it's all gone already.
Mr Speaker, Councillor Sirajul will clear up this town hall and we will give that proposition to the election.
Thank you.
Any member, any other member wish to speak on the substantive motions submitted by the Council of the Arts and the Social Services of Islam?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:28:59
Okay, so can I ask Councillor Mayn Talibda, please?
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Cllr Maium Talukdar - 2:29:28
Let's be absolutely clear what the residents of this borough is telling us.
They've tried toxic and divisive politics, party opposite.
The residents are tired of the dirty tricks,
and they are tired of being told directly, indirectly,
that Taou Hamlet is someone's birthright.
Residents say plainly, this borough does not belong
to the Labour Party.
It belongs to the community.
It belongs to the residents of this borough.
And the record proves why they say that.
Let me remind everyone, they closed the community language.
We brought it back.
The attainment and attendance was poorest amongst our schools.
We delivered universal free school meals and 1 ,000 a year to remove barriers for learners.
They removed school uniform grants and we reintroduced it, which 21 ,000 people will benefit from it.
And also they've cut the EMA in bursaries, Mr Speaker.
So let me remind them, we brought it back.
They slashed their youth service to the bone.
Our youth was on the street and we're investing 13 .7 million pounds.
Their youth space in every ward.
Under Labour, our children's service inspection failed, our youth class failed.
Under the Aspire admission, we're outstanding. Absolutely outstanding.
So, the truth is simple, Mr Speaker. We invested, they cut. We delivered, they declined.
As residents know exactly who raise standards in this borough, so we don't need lectures
from them.
In May 2026, the people of this borough, the people of this great borough will give their
verdict.
A verdict that belongs to Tower Hamlets, not Westminster, not Whitehall, not the party
that believes that this is their borough or their best right to lead this borough.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:31:50
Councillor Lecce, please.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Asma Islam - 2:32:00
So earlier on, just listening to this by a spin, it felt like walking into a high -end
property showroom in Canary Wharf.
Soft lighting, expensive candles, a polished marble island.
It looks beautiful.
But nobody actually lives there. It's a stage set. It's an illusion.
They hype up their success list, some of which are absolute illusions.
Grocery brochure designed to dazzle, but it has no foundation in the reality of the damp, overcrowded housing our residents face.
The Mayor spent pages celebrating himself until today he was silent on the 4 ,000 social
homes he promised and failed to build.
Apparently we now have 6 ,000 new homes built out of thin air.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:33:04
Cllr Asma Islam - 2:33:05
The Future Places policy, Mr Speaker, is not a success. It's a policy disaster. It's a
sales pitch masquerading as a strategy. Mr Speaker, we aren't here to be estate agents
for luxury developers. We are here to be advocates for the people of Taqamlet.
Their Aspire Party isn't just working with developers, they are bending over backwards for them.
They are handing over public land, land that belongs to our residents
and entering joint ventures where the private sector takes the profit and our residents take the risk.
The Mayor loves to wrap himself into the red flag of socialism, but his policy is a magnet
for foreign investment.
A Welcome Home mat for global capital, purports luxury towers as vertical bank accounts for
overseas billionaires, while families on our waiting list are told to bid for years.
While Labour is championing the Renters' Rights Bill and building 1 .5 million homes
to give real security to people, Esquire is focused on making our borough a playground
for international property portfolios.
And Mr Speaker, speaking of playground, let's talk about South of France.
It must have been nice Mr Speaker attending conference in France.
This is what our residents struggle.
When the Mayor and his cabinet member have those flights and hotels paid for by very
developers they are supposed to be negotiating with, we have a massive problem. There is
a difference between pro -development and pro -developer. How can you fight for a better deal for our
residents when you've already accepted free breeze from the other side? Labour's priority
is categorical. We don't just want to settle for affordable, home, home start are unaffordable
Thank you, Councillor. Time is up.
We want social homes built by the Council, owned by the Council and managed by the Council.
Thank you.
Can I ask Jaiheb Chaudhry please?
Members, can I ask you all to please remain quiet and let the speakers who have been selected by the speaker to speak.
So please, can I ask you to be respectful and be quiet?
Shupriya Iqbal - 2:35:34
Thank you.
And members in the public gallery, please, members of the public,
please remain quiet.
This is not a public meeting.
This is a meeting in public, but this is not a public meeting.
You are not to participate in the meeting.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Would you like to speak?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:35:50
Jai Chaudhry?
Can I?
Copy your sign, please.
Thank you.
Abu Talha, please.
Cllr Abu Talha Chowdhury - 2:36:13
Mr Speaker, State of the Borough, let's set the record straight and discuss this motion
one bullet point at a time. The first bullet point, best value. My feelings on this are
mixed. We know one of the reasons the best value inspection took place was because opposition
Councillors ran to the previous government as they couldn't stop Lutruk Ahmad from winning
the election. They thought, like in 2010 and 2014, their conspiracies would dethrone the
Mayor. Because let's face it, John Biggs, Hela Abbas and the current candidate can't
beat this man in the election. I don't want to even comment on the chances of the wannabes
waiting in the wings. However, I did say I had mixed feelings and I genuinely welcome
a lot of improvements planned because like in any large organisation, we aren't perfect.
Third bullet point, optimism bias.
The only two words that Labour councillors bothered to read in the latest LGA report.
That report was overwhelmingly positive, but as my colleague Councillor Kibbury often says,
this party always sees positive things in a negative light.
Then comes the mention of reserve powers, somehow trying to make out like we've lost
power locally.
Did anyone opposite bother to watch the cabinet yesterday, when we approved extension to Mud
Sports Centre by building two swimming pools and housing on the side. With all respect
to the envoys, it wasn't them who were sitting in these chairs making these decisions, but
it was this mayor and this cabinet. From the sixth bullet point, I totally accept we need
to improve in some areas. However, does the party opposite conveniently forget that many
of these audio opinions are historic issues that were created by them? Unsigned accounts
for six years, lack of procurement control when contracts ballooned from five million
to over 60 million, and alleged money laundering.
This was all under Labour.
How conveniently this motion leaves that out and the fact we have had to spend millions
to fix their mess.
On the eighth bullet point, how many times do we need to tell the Labour Party that they
did not write their spy manifesto?
The counter -tax freeze was for the poorest in our borough, and despite the increase for
everyone else, people are receiving valuable services that benefit the borough as a whole.
For example, free school meals in primary school and secondary school will tackle child
poverty.
College and university grants will accelerate educational attainment.
Free home care will protect the vulnerable because sadly many at home don't have anyone
to look after them.
The list goes on.
Our council tax income has paid for a lot more quality services than the poor services
offered under Labour.
And if they really wanted to freeze council tax for everyone, including high earners,
why didn't they freeze in any year when they ran the council for seven years?
Nearing the end, the penultimate bullet point about being accountable to every resident
in the ward is a given.
I agree everyone deserves a chance, including our Mayor, who has been hounded by conspiracies
and dog whistle rhetoric for too long.
Mr Speaker, the state of the borough under Aspire is much better than the state under
Labour.
That's no spin, but based on improved services and what residents are telling us on the doorstep.
That's why I'm very confident that this position will be validated on the 7th of May.
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:39:17
Can I just ask James King next please?
Thank you.
Cllr James King - 2:39:28
And again, well, sorry, just let me find what I was going to say.
Well, lies, damned lies and statistics, that's what they say.
And all we hear from the spy are word salad, numbers, facts, statistics.
4 ,000 affordable homes now it's 6 ,200.
The Director of Housing in December said it was 288.
Yeah? So what's it going to be?
This Mayor, he sounds like Dr Evil from Austin Powers.
Next it's going to be 1 million homes, isn't it?
And indeed he's got some mini -mes as well, tottering around after him.
Councillor King, can I ask you to address the speaker please?
Thank you.
So things were so hunky -dory, why is the government continually intervening in the council?
And because it's my last council meeting, I'm going to talk about an issue from my ward,
Mortyn and Brewster Houses, on the Barley Mile estate.
What is your message to the people who live there, who have had their homes ruined, their
lives disrupted, their eyes irritated by the dust of the works that have been forgotten
by the council and in the meantime the council's doubled the cost of the works
over 16 million pounds. We're all picking up the bill. Now the administration, this
new administration in the last four years has had the opportunity to
put this right. Officers recommended that work be done while the council did
structural work and that was the wrong decision. Now say what you like about
John Biggs. At least he would go down to the estate, look people in the eye, take
their questions and be accountable for those decisions. Even if they weren't the
right decisions. Where's the Mayor been? Has he been down to the Barleymower
estate to listen to people? Has the cabinet lead for housing been down? No,
it's not. You can, you're, do you find this boring? Do you find me talking about the
misery of people in Malting and Brewster houses boring? I'm talking to you
You're the one doing the order
Can I just remind
Counsellor, please do not point your fingers any counsellor because otherwise you'll just stop the meeting. They'll have to apply
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:41:44
Personally to you. So please
Cllr James King - 2:41:49
Please sit down.
Councillor King, can I ask you to sit down for a minute?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:42:01
Cllr James King - 2:42:02
Shupriya Iqbal - 2:42:05
I reminded you to address your comments to the Speaker but you disregarded what I said.
So if you want to finish off your comments, please address the Speaker, otherwise have
you finished your comment?
Again, I'll conclude then by addressing perhaps the comments of the previous Speaker who said
Cllr James King - 2:42:27
that they wish that the Labour Party had written this spy manifesto.
I enjoy the fact that I raised it at every budget meeting
and that it's then raised up again.
You talk as if night is today and black is white.
You can't fool everybody all the time.
So please reflect on that and think about,
when you're talking about the numbers, talking about the figures,
who you really represent and the lives that are out there in the community
Thank you for doing it again.
Thank you.
Applause
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:43:01
Do you,
side,
Councillor side please.
Cllr Sabina Khan - 2:43:11
Cllr Saied Ahmed - 2:43:13
Thank you Mr Speaker. Some Councillors are trying to leave their last impression very well but it's not going down as such, as planned, unfortunately.
Look, if I were to use one word to describe this motion that the Labour
group has put forward, it would be desperation.
That's what we're doing.
This motion is desperate, last -ditch attempt to, to refrain this administration
as a negative and a light cherry -picking data and holding us accountable for the
failures of John Biggs and Labour.
That's what was happening here.
Yes, they won't like the data we, we, we pull out, but guess what?
between them they don't even know what cuts they done but they cut everything to the bone.
They have no clue. Toxic politics and dirty tricks. When will they start speaking the
truth to our residents? Let's begin with the accusation of financial mismanagement.
This motion would have you believe that the recent best value and the audit report were
a blanket indictment of this administration. However, it is of Labour councillors if they
bothered to actually read the report it would be find a long list of legacy
issues that we inherited from Labour and that our administration has gone to
great lengths to correct those issues. It was our administration that got
past the account signed off we paid off the backlog of taxes and we also
appointed officers section 151 officers to ensure that these failures never
occurred again. Labour officers, Labour councillors, they talk about the settlement. That wasn't
a charity to this government, to this authority. It was based on a formula. We are entitled
to receive this. Labour government didn't give us a charity and guess what? Guess what?
This is based on the council tax increase. Labour government say that you need to increase
council tax to get that settlement. Talk about getting it with one hand and take him back
with the other one. They have their ducks aligned before they come and lecture us on
council tax freezes. Have they ever frozen anything while they were in office?
No.
How many Eid gifts do they come with here every day? And what do they give to the residents
of Ta 'amless? But guess what? We protect people who are vulnerable. We make sure that
they are safe and we give them social stability to our residents. Dog whistle politics and
creating chaos. That's what this Labour group are Buddha. That's what they've done before
and they continue doing this. Labour has gone after us on this motion for taking money out
of reserves. But guess what, what have we done with this reserve? We've put it back
into the borough. We've put it back into our services. They would rather have us put this
£250 million in the council's bank account. We have invested this £250 million back into
the communities to make sure that our residents have a better life in Tower Hamlets.
They left people hanging. They left the borough hanging. They left people out there. That's
why May 2022 they were booted out and they'll see the same result in May 2026 when we come
back with a majority sweeping this chamber. Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Thank you.
We're just running out of time.
Let's take the last speaker.
That's for Shibu.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:46:24
Given your time to update.
Excuse me please.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Sorry, can you please make your mind up please?
Thank you Mr Speaker.
Cllr Abdi Mohamed - 2:46:47
Tonight, given it's our last full council of the municipal year, it's only right we're a bit more honest about its legacy.
I want to do this through the lens of residents, because the reality is stark and quite frankly, it's an embarrassment.
TELHAMLIS is under statutory intervention again, for the second time in a decade, under the same mayor.
It's not normal, it's not acceptable, as much as the SPIN doctors and administration advisors might have you think so, it isn't.
We should all take a moment to pause in this chamber and think about that.
When we talk of legacy, one thing is true, this administration has made history for all
the wrong reasons.
The mail team will go down as one that has led this borough into not one but two statutory
interventions.
We all know residents are worried.
We see the council functioning, but too often isn't functioning.
Residents asked how much money is costing through their taxpayer tax council tax.
They see council leadership boasting that they're spending £23 million turning around this council.
To be clear, this administration broke the council.
We see this most apparently when the top table is willing to castise a councillor
rather than talking about the political intimidation we're seeing from this side.
Residents are alarmed because what the envoys proceeded to tell us wasn't minor.
They talked about cultures of patronage, optimism bias, plans for more plans, while residents were left waiting.
At the same time, 1 .4 million spent on advisors. Shock!
400 ,000 spent on refurbishing the Mayor's Office as we move in to a new office.
Residents rightly asking, whose priorities have they been serving?
Because for them, the reality couldn't be more different.
29 ,000 households on the waiting list, 13 ,000 living in overcrowded accommodation,
thousands in temporary accommodation, a promise for 4 ,000 social homes not delivered.
on finances, it doesn't matter what P .O. Young might say,
reserves down and a pattern of spending that raises serious questions about priorities.
And council tax promised, the freezes promised, then broken,
not once, not twice, but three times.
So residents are paying for more and they're getting less under this administration.
The public realm, the worst recycling rates in England, been strikes that were shocking.
A health hazard. This is not a council doing the expansion of circumstances.
This is a council that should be ashamed and that is a legacy.
Thank you. Can I ask Sirajul Islam, do you wish to exercise your right to reply?
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:50:05
You have three minutes to do so. Thank you.
Thank you, Mr. Mayor, and thank you
Cllr Sirajul Islam - 2:50:12
everyone who contributed to this debate.
Having heard the group opposite, I have to say four years of failure and they're still reaching for the same spin.
Let me just put a few facts on the record.
This is the second time in a decade that government has been forced to intervene in this council. On both occasions
it's the same mayor. The government has now given end to statutory powers.
This is not a process, it's a loss of control.
Council has gone up by 20 % on manifesting commitment
to freeze for four years.
And before anyone opposite tells us freeze, protect
the poorest resident, council rents went up by
25 % of the worst cost of living crisis in a generation.
Fees and charges went up.
Disabled badge holders were charged.
The poorest residents paid more under this mayor,
not less.
He promised 4 ,000 council homes, none were developed.
He promised school of excellence, it was never built.
He is happy to take credit for other people's work,
but the promise he made in his own name, he did not keep.
While this administration is busy explaining away its
failures, it is Labour government that has been
investing in this power.
A 56 million pound increase in spending power in year one
alone, increased settlement in year two that follows funding
for homelessness, household support fund, money actually
builds council homes.
That is what government that makes this power
seriously look like.
residents can see the difference.
So let us be clear about what four years of Aspire has meant
for the people of Tyrehamptons.
Higher council tax, higher rent, higher fees and charges,
higher parking costs, worse recycling rates in the country,
bins unemptied, streets unswerved,
A -level students let down.
They will say, but residents can swim for free.
I hope the Aspire councillors take up that offer,
as on 7th of May, they'll be in the deep end.
Our residents are paying more and getting less.
They know it.
And 7th of May they'll vote for a change for a Labour Mayor and a Councillor.
Sorry, sorry Councillor Aysland, do continue.
Thank you.
And on 7th of May they'll vote for a change for a Labour Mayor and a Labour Councillor
who will work with honesty, sincerity and for every resident of this borough.
Finally Mr Speaker, it has been an honour of my life to serve the people of this borough
for 25 years and I ask the permission to serve them as mayor, on a honour of my life to serve
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:52:36
as mayor of this great borough. Thank you. Can I ask the head of
Democratic Services to conduct the votes? Thank you Mr Speaker. Again it's straight up and down
Mr Matthew Mannion - 2:52:48
as there are no amendments so all those in favour please show
All those against?
Abstentions?
Okay, thank you.
So that falls.
Now, with your permission, Mr Speaker, I'll just quickly talk about timings.
So we've got about 10 minutes left.
I'm aware that there was a request to move forward the motion that was at the end of
the meeting and also a statement that we would take the best value report as well.
and we've got other reports on the agenda.
I don't know whether there's a proposal
to extend the business.
We can extend for another hour if we want to.
Mr. Mayor, looks like you've got a proposal.

9 REPORTS FROM THE EXECUTIVE AND THE COUNCIL'S COMMITTEES

Mayor Lutfur Rahman - 2:53:33
Sure, can I request colleagues to extend the business
until five past 10, so we can take the report.
10 minutes.
Sir, I tell you what, if you want to scrap the motion,
just go straight to the reports.
Yeah, let's scrap the motion, go to the report straightaway.
Okay, thank you.
If a seconder, if people in favour of that change.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 2:53:53
So we just keep the agenda as it is, basically.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:54:02
Okay.
Can we just, we're dealing with the agenda item 9.
Reports from the Executive and the Council's committees.
There is one report from the Executive Committee for the Council's consideration of this meeting,
and these were published in the Agenda pack.
Agenda Item 9 .1 is the Cabinet Report on Constitution update.
new constitution and new committee procedural rules.
Can Councillor Mayim Talukdah,
can remember for education, youth and lifelong learning,
to introduce the report.
Thank you.
Thank you Mr. Speaker, the chair of GP Committee will...
Cllr Maium Talukdar - 2:55:03
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:55:05
Thank you Mr. Speaker.
Cllr Ahmodur Khan - 2:55:09
It is meeting on Thursday 17 March
and General Purpose Committee consider a report providing an update on this council work to
the review on refresh on council constitution.
The report set out work to the date of creating a new template and constitution built in new
more accessible constitution portal.
Cllr Ahmodul Kabir - 2:55:33
The report also set out finalised committee procedure rules following discussion on this
to the previous committee meeting.
Following discussion, this committee agreed the submit
of report to the council for this constitution of endorse
and recommendation set out of this report and ask
that officers work finalised to the new constitution
and constitution portal,
which once completed would be the barra back to the council
for final constitution.
The full report General Purpose Committee will set out in this cover sheet.
The Council is therefore recommending to the review for this report and progress made by
this Constitution Working Group and to agree the new Constitution project proposal set
out the report and ask officers to finalise the new Constitution and Constitution portal
before proceeding to the council again adaptation.
The agree to this include this new committee procedure,
rules and constitution structure chart
as a new chapter in this constitution.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
This is the report.
Thank you, thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:56:54
Councillor Kobi Ahmed, second report.
You have three minutes.
I'll formally second it.
Cllr Kabir Ahmed - 2:57:03
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:57:04
Mr Matthew Mannion - 2:57:11
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:57:23
who aren't aware of the

10 OTHER BUSINESS

There are seven reports to consider under the businesses.
As of 10 .1 is report from the CQC update.
Can Councillor Sabine Actar, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, introduce
the report?
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Shafi Ahmed - 2:57:57
As a lead member for Health and Adult Social Care, it's an absolute honour to see the
Cllr Sabina Akhtar - 2:58:02
Hamlets achieving good rating from the secrecy results.
This is a significant milestone in our borough.
It reflects not only the quality of care being delivered,
but the strength of our values, putting residents first,
protecting the most vulnerable, and working together
to deliver compassionate, effective support.
I am extremely proud of the extraordinary effects
of our staff and officers, our social workers, care workers,
every staff associated in the teams.
Day in and day out, they go up and beyond to support
our residents with dignity, respect, and professionalism.
This rating is a testament to their dedication,
resilience, and unwavering commitment to public service.
It also speaks to the strength of our partnership
across health and social care, and our shared ambition
to reduce inequalities and improve outcomes
for all communities.
Once we celebrate this achievement, we remain focused
on continuing to improve but today it is right that we recognise this success and say clearly
that this is something Tower Hamlets can truly be proud of.
Thank you to the Mayor for his strong leadership, thank you to the previous member, Councillor
Kiberia, Chaudhary, Georgia and the team and all the directors for their continuous work
for this improvement journey to receive such a good rating.
It's an absolute honour.
Thank you.
Well done.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 2:59:21
Can I ask Guru Kazir Maitre to second the report?
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Maium Talukdar - 2:59:36
I would like to congratulate Councillor Sabinakta, lead member, cabinet member and also the former
cabinet member, Councillor Kibriya Chaudhuri and our officers, Georgina and her team, and
especially our social workers who work tirelessly for this borough, for the vulnerable people
of this borough.
So, I would like to second this. Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:00:00
Thank you. Remember I wish to speak.
Can we move to a vote please, Mr Speaker?
Do you wish to speak?
Yes, thank you Mr Speaker.
Cllr Sirajul Islam - 3:00:19
So I've always had an interest in social care,
social services.
I was the cabinet member back in 2002 when I transformed the
service to a three -star social service department.
So I always had a keen interest.
Of course, having the good rating, of course,
is something that we celebrate, something that I feel very
passionate about.
So I just wanted to congratulate all the officers from the
director down to the frontline staff for the brilliant work
they've done to achieve this.
They deserve it fully.
But I also see in the report there is a criticism of the weak political oversight of the service.
So I wish that was better and maybe we could receive more than the standard that we received.
But all the credit goes to our officers and congratulations to them all.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Councillor Gulland, can we have the children please?
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Sabina Khan - 3:01:12
I would like to place my sincere thanks to lead members, all officers and frontline staff
and partners who have contributed to this achievement.
Their hard work, resilience, and unwavering focus
on resident well -being have been instrumental
in securing this positive outcome.
Such recognition does not happen by chance.
It is the result of sustained commitment and teamwork.
Mr. Speaker, while we should be proud of this achievement,
we know there is always more to do.
We will keep improving our service,
Please listen to residents, carers and do our best to ensure high quality care for everyone
in our community.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:01:54
Mr Speaker, can we move to a vote on this item and bring the best value item forward
please?
Cllr Kabir Ahmed - 3:01:59
Can you, because we're running out of time, can you move to the vote?
Yes.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:02:02
Thank you.
I think, does everyone agree with that report?
Yes.
Okay.
Okay.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 3:02:09
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:02:14
We move to agenda item 10 .2 is a report from continuous improvement.

10 b) Continuous Improvement Update

Can Councillor Kavi Rahmat can move for housing regeneration.
I will now introduce the report.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Cllr Saied Ahmed - 3:02:44
I want to briefly set out the key requirements of the new ministerial directions issued on
17 March.
The old council wants to be in intervention and we must continue to work together with
the ministerial envoys to address the issues raised in these directions as swiftly as possible
and end any intervention with the utmost haste.
We have much to be proud of, and I am personally incredibly
honoured to have worked with the Mayor, the CEO,
the Section 151 officer, and officers to present a balanced
and sustainable budget for the fourth year in a row.
Cheers.
However, the Council is now in a statute of intervention
for effective use of resources in response to both current
and historic concerns raised by our external auditors,
as well as partnerships, leadership, culture,
and governance, and continuous improvement.
Absolutely.
The minister is minded to put a finance envoy
in place alongside an existing envoy team.
However, this is yet to be confirmed by MHCLG.
The new directions set clear requirements of the council.
First, the council is required to continue implementing
its continuous improvement plan at pace,
including completing actions to address the statutory recommendations and the significant weaknesses identified by the external auditor.
I am confident as lead member for resources that with the support of our new section 151 and the corporate director for resources,
the officers alongside that whole area and the recruitment of two new director posts and the acceleration of the existing work,
this can and will be achieved.
Second, we must demonstrate clear and sustained improvement in several core areas of governance
and corporate capabilities.
This includes scrutiny, recruitment, transparency, procurement, contract management, internal
investigations, our office of structure and the scheme of delegation.
Many of the issues we face in these areas are historic, but as a learning and listening
Council, this administration is keen to improve wherever it can as quickly as possible. Third,
the directions require us to fully cooperate with the envoys and ensure that they have
the resource they need to deliver a series of deep dives into areas identified by the
envoy team. Again, the Council will proactively work to address any negative perceptions in
these areas, despite the evidence from them still not being shared with the authority.
Finally, the Council must disband the transformation and assurance board and replace it with an
MBOI -led improvement board, which will oversee our delivery against the directions.
I would like to thank all the external members of TAB, as well as officers who helped to
facilitate the work and sessions for their expertise and commitments.
I do not believe that the work was in vain and will contribute to the programme of improvements
we need to deliver.
I would also like to briefly address the amendments that were submitted by the independent group
and add that the Council's reporting and mechanism are already best practise.
Thank you.
Can I call Councillor Mayen Talibda please to second the report?
You have three minutes.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
I would like to second this report.
Cllr Maium Talukdar - 3:06:03
We, as an administration, under the leadership of
Manluthur Rahman, we will fully cooperate with the
government, we'll fully cooperate with the envoys,
and we'll do everything possible to make
improvements.
We are making improvements.
Hopefully, after the May 2026, it will be a fresh
start, new people, and some people will be wiped out.
And we will be out of intervention soon.
Thank you.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:06:36
Can I ask Saifuddin Khalid to move the amendment, please?
Cllr Saif Uddin Khaled - 3:06:50
Mr Speaker, I formally move the amendment. The amendment is necessary because we cannot
pretend everything is fine when the facts say otherwise. The Secretary of State has
The government has formally further intervened in this Council.
Independent auditors and the government envoys have identified failures in leadership, governance,
financial management, transparency and organisational control.
Four statutory recommendations, Mr Speaker.
Six significant weaknesses have been identified.
These are not minor issues.
This is a broken down in good governance and financial stewardship.
The most serious warning any council can ever receive.
Mr Speaker, while the residents are dealing with the rising costs, increasing need, they
should not also have to deal with an administration that has lost confidence of auditors, inspectors,
government and the residents of this borough.
Claims of success ring hollow when every independent assessment points to systematic failings and
serious risks.
Our residents deserve competence, honesty and leadership that confronts reality, not
spin.
Our amendment is very simple, Mr Speaker.
Require transparent public explanations of how each failure will be fixed.
Bring all improvement reports and financial updates to the full Council in this very chamber
and reaffirm our support for hard -working staff who continue delivering services despite
the instability at the top.
Mr Speaker, accountability is not optional.
Mr Speaker, Labour Party, four years back, in the council chamber, they thought they had the birthright in Tower Hamlets.
The residents of this borough have shown them red card.
Now the Aspire Party thinks they are invincible.
Mr Speaker, in politics no one is invincible.
This time round the residents of this borough now have a clear viable option.
The Tower Hamlets' independence.
They will choose the pragmatic Tower Hamlets' independence to show transparency, accountability,
got back to this council. Thank you so much Mr. Speaker.
Thank you. Can I just hand over to Supriya for clarification?
Shupriya Iqbal - 3:09:51
Members, I believe Councillor Jai Chaudhary will second the amendment. However, before
Councillor Jai Chaudhary you speak, I'm going to hand over to Matthew to deal with the remaining
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:10:03
time that we have to deal with all the motions. Thank you, Supriya. Yes, I think we've kind
Mr Matthew Mannion - 3:10:05
I have hit the guillotine but I am aware there are still one or two speeches that need to

10 OTHER BUSINESS

be had for this item and I know there are a couple of people who really want to speak
on the gender pay gap if they can.
So the chatting speaker would like to propose that we extend the meeting to allow for that
to happen.
So if I could have a vote on that to see whether that is acceptable or not.
So those in favour?
And those against?
I would suggest that we have to move to the vote.
I am afraid there won't be time for a speech, but Councillor Chowdhury, can you confirm
that you are seconding the amendment, please?
Can we just please make a note of the fact that the other side denied the motion to talk about the pay gap?
Cllr Maisha Begum - 3:11:04
Sorry, sorry.
Please, please, please, please just follow the rules and procedures please.
Can you please, can you please sit down and if you are not asked to do so, go on.
Okay?
Please.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:11:28
You just can't stand and start talking
without the prime permission.
Thank you.
Now they're telling us that.
It is a shame, I'm sorry Mr. Speaker,
Cllr Maisha Begum - 3:11:39
but the moment that half of the opposition side have denied.
Excuse me, you're doing it again.
You're doing it again.
Please.
Please.
You are doing, you are repeatedly,
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:11:52
you are repeatedly disobeying the speakers.
Please. Thank you.
Cllr Kabir Hussain - 3:12:03
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:12:04
Thank you.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 3:12:12
Thank you, Mr Speaker. So, Councillor Jai Chaudry just formally confirm your seconding.
There's no time for speech, I'm afraid.
Thank you, Mr Speaker. Just before confirming, I just today something.
My colleague, just give me a minute, please.
Please, can you...
My colleague, my colleague, Councillor Rohit Amadouj, I just want to wish him well.
Please, you want a second day, please do so.
Thank you.
What kind of democracy is this? You are not telling me speech.
Cllr Saif Uddin Khaled - 3:12:34
You should be impartial. You should be impartial.
If you are trying impartiality...
Can you please...
Can you please sit down? Can you please sit down?
Please.
Cllr Suluk Ahmed - 3:12:54
Please follow the rules and procedures of the meeting.
Please do not shout and discriminate each other.
Move to a vote.
Thank you.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
Mr Matthew Mannion - 3:13:15
On the report on the continuous improvement update, there is an amendment first.
So can we see those all in favour of the amendment please show.
So all those in favour of the amendment.
OK, those against.
Any abstentions?
So the amendment falls so I can see all those in favour of the report itself.
Those against.
Abstentions.
Moving on to agenda item 10 .3 is the report on gender and equality pay gap.
All those in favour?
All those against?
Any abstentions?
That's carried.
And then we move on to agenda item 10 .4 which is the pay policy.
All those in favour?
All those against?
That's carried as well.
Thank you. Were there any abstentions on that?
Just for the record, no?
Thank you.
There's an amendment to one in a minute.
Then the report on the committee calendar for next year.
As much as we all have committee meetings, are we all in favour?
Yeah, okay.
Against?
No abstentions there.
The next report is 10 .6 on the member allowance scheme.
There is an amendment on this one which is in the table papers.
So can I see all those in favour of the amendment?
Thank you.
Those against?
Those abstaining?
So the amendment falls.
So can I see all those in favour of the report as set out?
In particular, noting the change on pensions, the ability to claim a pension.
Those against?
Abstentions?
So that passes as well.
Thank you.
We will then move on to item 10 .7 which is the approval of exit payments.
All those in favour?
All those against?
Any abstentions?
It's carried I think one way or another.
Thank you very much.
and that's all of the reports, the motions full,
and then there was just the, whether anyone who was leaving wanted to say a few words at the very end.
I'll hand back to the speaker for this bit.
So if anyone who's leaving wants to say a couple of words, then please raise your hand,
and the speaker did also offer to take photos afterwards with anyone who was leaving as well if they wanted.
Mr Matthew Mannion
Head of Democratic Services
Tower Hamlets
View profile Mr Matthew Mannion