The City of London Corporation’s main decision-making body today unanimously condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine.  

In a motion passed at the Court of Common Council, elected Members also agreed to donate £250,000 to the Disaster Emergency Committee in support of humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine.

Members also encouraged City institutions to donate. The Lord Mayor will write to Livery Companies encouraging them to also make contributions to match or donate more than the City Corporation.

The motion pledges that the City Corporation will stand united with the people of Ukraine in their fight for liberation from the invading power.

 The full motion said:

 “This Court of Common Council of the City of London Corporation condemns in the strongest possible terms the unprovoked attack and invasion of the sovereign Nation of Ukraine by Russia. It pledges to stand united with the people of Ukraine in their fight for liberation from the invading power.

 “The City of London Corporation further fully supports the actions of Her Majesty’s Government in their imposition of wide-ranging sanctions against Russia and welcomes the swift and effective implementation of these sanctions by City businesses.

 “However, it urges the Government to go further with expanded sanctions. It also urges the Government to greatly improve the processes for accepting refugees from Ukraine.

 “We reiterate our commitment to the highest standards of integrity and transparency from all financial and professional services businesses. Alongside City businesses, we totally condemn any engagement with money obtained from illegal sources anywhere in the world.

 “Further, the City Corporation resolves to donate a total of £250,000, to be met from the unallocated balances within the Finance and Policy & Resources Committee Contingency Funds for 2021/22, to the Disasters Emergency Committee in support of humanitarian relief efforts in Ukraine.”

The City Corporation has already donated £25,000 from its International Disasters Fund to UNICEF’s efforts on the Ukrainian borders. The City Bridge Trust is also funding organisations supporting refugees arriving in the UK.

The City Corporation has also illuminated the Guildhall in the Ukrainian colours and the national flag has been raised over the Guildhall. Earlier this week, more than a hundred City workers and residents gathered at Guildhall Yard to show their support for the Ukrainian people.

 The motion also urged the Government to go further with expanded sanctions and to greatly improve the processes for accepting refugees from Ukraine.

 The City Corporation has been working with the Government, regulators, and the financial sector on the implementation of sanctions.

 The City of London Police leads on Economic and Cyber Crime and has been at the forefront of efforts to combat money laundering, asset denial, and development of financial investigation capabilities.

 The City Corporation has also put in place local systems to support families and individuals seeking asylum and refugees. 

 --ENDS--

 Notes to editors

 About the City of London Corporation

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk