Letter: The real reason London can't compete in Europe
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.YOUR leading article 'No longer the place for clever Dicks' (23 August), highlights many of the problems which have befallen London and the South-east.
The neglect of public transport and the glut of office space could be dealt with more effectively if London had an elected authority which could plan strategically.
In your interesting history of the Eighties in London, you ignore the abolition of the Greater London Council in 1986, whose former headquarters still lie empty awaiting an end to Government indecision on its future.
Since the Government seems unable to sort out such a small (though important) aspect of London life, what hope is there for the greater issues?
If we are to avoid the economic drain you predict to Paris, Berlin, Milan or Barcelona, which all have city authorities, we must ensure that London is promoted abroad. A small but effective elected authority could do this best, while co-ordinating transport and land-use planning.
Steve Bullock
Vice-chair, Association of London Authorities
London SW1
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments