New Funding, Old Tensions: London Mayor Slams Chancellors Spending Review for Divisive Infrastructure Decisions | News | london-news-net.preview-domain.com

New Funding, Old Tensions: London Mayor Slams Chancellors Spending Review for Divisive Infrastructure Decisions

New Funding, Old Tensions: London Mayor Slams Chancellors Spending Review for Divisive Infrastructure Decisions

The Mayor of London has voiced strong criticism of the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s Spending Review, asserting that she committed “a significant error by setting London against the rest of the nation.”

In an interview with BBC London, Sir Sadiq Khan expressed disappointment over the government’s failure to back crucial infrastructure projects in London, such as the DLR extension.

He described last week’s Spending Review, where Chancellor Rachel Reeves outlined the government’s financial strategy, as “a mix of positives, negatives, and some unattractive elements.”

However, he commended the Home Secretary for the unprecedented funding allocated to the police in London. The Treasury has been approached for a response to his comments.

The Spending Review disclosed that Transport for London (TfL) is set to receive £2.2 billion over the next four years, yet no funding was designated for the new transport initiatives that Sir Sadiq has been advocating.

Previously, he noted that a Labour government working alongside a Labour mayor could significantly benefit London.

On Tuesday, he shared his ambivalent thoughts regarding the Chancellor’s announcements.

Sir Sadiq stated: “I appreciate the positive aspects – after extensive advocacy, we have secured a record-breaking agreement for Transport for London. The financial support from the government has more than doubled on average compared to the previous administration.”

“I also welcome the long-awaited multi-year agreement for City Hall and the historic investment in the NHS,” he added.

Nonetheless, he remarked, “It is unfortunate that this government is not facilitating new infrastructure in London, like the DLR extension, which would not only generate new employment opportunities but also enable the construction of a substantial number of homes.”

He criticized the notion of contrasting London with other regions, stating, “Our nation’s success is intertwined with London’s prosperity.”

Regarding his aspirations for DLR and Bakerloo line extensions, the Mayor continued, “We will persist in our efforts to advocate for these projects — I am actively lobbying for them — but that doesn’t negate the fact that I believe the Chancellor erred last week. She has made a significant mistake by antagonizing London against the rest of the country.”

The Mayor’s transportation initiatives include plans for a DLR extension to Thamesmead, a Bakerloo line extension to Lewisham, and the West London Orbital between Hendon and Hounslow.

Sir Sadiq also cautioned that London may face a reduction in police personnel, despite the “historic settlement from the Home Office in conjunction with City Hall’s investment.”

He expressed concern: “Given 14 years of austerity, we need substantial funds to prevent further losses of police officers, PCSOs, police staff, and facilities.”

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