CITY OF LONDON CORPORATION BACKS REMAINING IN THE EU

The City of London Corporation, the Square Mile’s local authority, today agreed that it is to support the UK remaining in the European Union.

The Corporation’s primary-decision making body, the Court of Common Council, voted overwhelmingly that: “Taking into account the views of City stakeholders and businesses, the City of London Corporation supports the United Kingdom remaining a member of the European Union.”

The Council discussed a report which pointed out how access to the single market in financial services provides significant benefits for the UK financial services industry and for consumers.

After today’s vote, Policy Chairman at the City of London Corporation Mark Boleat said:

“The City of London Corporation cannot afford to remain quiet on the biggest issue facing the UK at the moment. When City firms of all sizes and in different sectors, who we represent, are voicing their concerns about the risks of leaving the EU, we need to make sure the City of London Corporation remains relevant to our stakeholders.

“While we might be criticised for taking such a stance, we need to speak up and encourage others to follow suit. We have taken positions on controversial matters like a new Heathrow runway and immigration policy in the past and can no longer be a silent partner in the run up to the 23^rd of June.”

The Court of Common Council works through committees, like many other local authorities, but it is unique in that it is non-party political. It is represented by 125 Members. Its main business focuses on the reports of committees, motions and Members' questions.

Mark Boleat’s full speech can be found here.

Notes to editors

About the City of London Corporation

The City of London Corporation provides local government and policing services for the financial and commercial heart of Britain, the 'Square Mile'. In addition, the City Corporation has three roles:

• We support London’s communities by working in partnership with neighbouring boroughs on economic regeneration, education and skills projects. In addition, the City of London Corporation’s charity City Bridge Trust makes grants of around £20 million annually to charitable projects across London and we also support education with three independent schools, three City Academies, a primary school and the world-renowned Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

• We also help look after key London’s heritage and green spaces including Tower Bridge, Museum of London, Barbican Arts Centre, City gardens, Hampstead Heath, Epping Forest, Burnham Beeches, and important ‘commons’ in south London.

• We also support and promote the ‘City’ as a world-leading financial and business hub, with outward and inward business delegations, high-profile civic events and research-driven policies all reflecting a long-term approach.

See www.cityoflondon.gov.uk for more details.