cityam--2020-10-09--TfL boss that oversaw Crossrail and Garden Bridge fiascos set for an honour

A controversial former TfL boss appears to be in line for an honour , after Sadiq Khan tweeted his congratulations before the tweet was hastily removed .
The Queen ’ s birthday honours list will be be announced tonight , however it appears the mayor of London jumped the gun this morning by announcing that former TfL commissioner Mike Brown is in line for a gong .
Read more : Time running out for TfL to secure emergency government funding The tweet was deleted by Khan minutes later .
Brown will be seen as a controversial choice to be selected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , after he oversaw the failed £40m Garden Bridge and years of delays to the Crossrail project .
Crossrail ’ s budget also blew out by billions of pounds under his watch .
He stepped down as transport commissioner earlier this year .
Khan tweeted this morning : “ Huge congratulations to TfL ’ s Ibrar Akram and former transport commissioner Mike Brown for being recognised for their outstanding contributions to London in the Queen ’ s Birthday Honours .
Before the Open newsletter : Start your day with the City View podcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a true testament to the values of community and support that underpin our city.
” Brown was appointed to the role as London ’ s transport commissioner in 2015 by former London mayor Boris Johnson , after formerly working as managing director of Heathrow Airport and London Underground .
Under his tenure , Crossrail ’ s budget blew out from £14.8bn to almost £17bn and was delayed by two years .
The costs for Crossrail are now expected to be even more , because of the Covid pandemic , and its opening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Read more : Crossrail opening delayed until 2022 and extra £1.1bn needed to finish project Brown was also the commissioner when Johnson ’ s failed Garden Bridge project was originally signed off .
The project , strongly supported by former chancellor George Osborne and actress Joanna Lumley , cost the taxpayer £40m even though no construction work was ever started .

TfL boss that oversaw Crossrail and Garden Bridge fiascos set for an honour
Crossrail chief Mark Wild, London Mayor Sadiq Khan and ex- Transport for London Commissioner Mike Brown in 2016
A controversial former TfL boss appears to be in line for an honour, after Sadiq Khan tweeted his congratulations before the tweet was hastily removed.
The Queen’s birthday honours list will be be announced tonight, however it appears the mayor of London jumped the gun this morning by announcing that former TfL commissioner Mike Brown is in line for a gong.
The tweet was deleted by Khan minutes later.
Brown will be seen as a controversial choice to be selected on the Queen’s honours list, after he oversaw the failed £40m Garden Bridge and years of delays to the Crossrail project.
Crossrail’s budget also blew out by billions of pounds under his watch.
He stepped down as transport commissioner earlier this year.
Khan tweeted this morning: “Huge congratulations to TfL’s Ibrar Akram and former transport commissioner Mike Brown for being recognised for their outstanding contributions to London in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Before the Open newsletter: Start your day with the City View podcast and key market data
“Your work is a true testament to the values of community and support that underpin our city.”
Brown was appointed to the role as London’s transport commissioner in 2015 by former London mayor Boris Johnson, after formerly working as managing director of Heathrow Airport and London Underground.
Under his tenure, Crossrail’s budget blew out from £14.8bn to almost £17bn and was delayed by two years.
The costs for Crossrail are now expected to be even more, because of the Covid pandemic, and its opening date has been pushed back to 2022.
Brown was also the commissioner when Johnson’s failed Garden Bridge project was originally signed off.
The project, strongly supported by former chancellor George Osborne and actress Joanna Lumley, cost the taxpayer £40m even though no construction work was ever started.


cityam--2020-10-09--Silver linings: How IBM’s reinvention highlights the rise of the cloud

International Business Machines ( IBM ) shares rose almost six per cent yesterday after the tech firm announced plans to split its business into two public companies .
IBM , which is one of the world ’ s oldest computer companies , will spin off its legacy IT infrastructure business by the end of next year and double down its efforts on cloud computing .
It ’ s a logical move for the computing giant .
But it also highlights the growing significance of cloud technology as businesses adapt to the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic .
Read more : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Dropbox ’ s cloud storage services The times they are a-changing For IBM , the decision to split its business marks a “ logical next step ” as it shifts its focus towards emerging technologies .
It ’ s not the first time the company has adapted , as chief executive Arvind Krishna was keen to point out .
“ We divested networking back in the 1990s , we divested PCs back in the 2000s , we divested semiconductors about five years ago because all of them didn ’ t necessarily play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
Now , IBM is turning its attention to hybrid cloud — a mix of private , on-premises cloud and public cloud — which it says is a $ 1 trillion opportunity .
The move builds on IBM ’ s $ 34bn ( £26bn ) takeover of cloud computing firm Red Hat last year – a move pioneered by Krishna .
The motive is straightforward .
Cloud computing and artificial intelligence are high margin businesses , and companies are increasingly favouring these new technologies over traditional computing .
“ To drive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the reality of the world we live in and the future our clients strive to build , ” Krishna wrote in a memo to staff .
“ Today , hybrid cloud and AI are swiftly becoming the locus of commerce , transactions , and over time , of computing itself.
” That is not to say that demand for IT infrastructure has collapsed .
IBM said it has more than 4,600 clients in 115 countries , with a backlog of orders worth $ 60bn .
But the company is hoping the separation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parts of the business .
IBM ’ s radical move will be a major shake-up for the global cloud market , which is currently dominated by Microsoft and Amazon Web Services .
While IBM already offers cloud services , the split signals its clear intention to target rapid growth and challenge the major players .
Oliver Presland , vice president of global product management at cloud computing firm Ensono described the split as a “ bet-the-business move ” for IBM .
“ On one hand it is risking the IBM name by going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the other hand it will try and partner with the likes of AWS and Azure to offer a more compelling upgrade path to existing clients on legacy infrastructure , ” he said .
More widely , though , IBM ’ s move highlights the steady rise of cloud computing as the most valuable strategy for businesses .
“ The biggest benefits accrue to the business from faster time-to-market , simplified innovation , easier scalability , and reduced risk , ” consultancy firm McKinsey wrote in a report published in July .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customer experiences in days rather than months and can support analytics that would be uneconomical or simply impossible with traditional technology platforms.
” These changes have been only further accelerated by the outbreak of coronavirus , which has forced companies to adapt to more flexible ways of working .
“ Thanks to the pandemic , 2020 may well become known as the year cloud came of age , ” Presland said .
“ Cloud has become the de facto way for businesses to run their operations , embraced for its unparalleled flexibility and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world of Covid , and whatever comes next .
”

Silver linings: How IBM’s reinvention highlights the rise of the cloud
International Business Machines (IBM) shares rose almost six per cent yesterday after the tech firm announced plans to split its business into two public companies.
IBM, which is one of the world’s oldest computer companies, will spin off its legacy IT infrastructure business by the end of next year and double down its efforts on cloud computing.
It’s a logical move for the computing giant. But it also highlights the growing significance of cloud technology as businesses adapt to the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic.
The times they are a-changing
For IBM, the decision to split its business marks a “logical next step” as it shifts its focus towards emerging technologies.
It’s not the first time the company has adapted, as chief executive Arvind Krishna was keen to point out.
“We divested networking back in the 1990s, we divested PCs back in the 2000s, we divested semiconductors about five years ago because all of them didn’t necessarily play into the integrated value proposition,” he said.
Now, IBM is turning its attention to hybrid cloud — a mix of private, on-premises cloud and public cloud — which it says is a $1 trillion opportunity.
The move builds on IBM’s $34bn (£26bn) takeover of cloud computing firm Red Hat last year – a move pioneered by Krishna.
Building for the future
The motive is straightforward. Cloud computing and artificial intelligence are high margin businesses, and companies are increasingly favouring these new technologies over traditional computing.
“To drive growth, our strategy must be rooted in the reality of the world we live in and the future our clients strive to build,” Krishna wrote in a memo to staff.
“Today, hybrid cloud and AI are swiftly becoming the locus of commerce, transactions, and over time, of computing itself.”
That is not to say that demand for IT infrastructure has collapsed. IBM said it has more than 4,600 clients in 115 countries, with a backlog of orders worth $60bn.
But the company is hoping the separation will help to refocus efforts on different parts of the business.
Coming of age
IBM’s radical move will be a major shake-up for the global cloud market, which is currently dominated by Microsoft and Amazon Web Services.
While IBM already offers cloud services, the split signals its clear intention to target rapid growth and challenge the major players.
Oliver Presland, vice president of global product management at cloud computing firm Ensono described the split as a “bet-the-business move” for IBM.
“On one hand it is risking the IBM name by going all in on hybrid cloud, and on the other hand it will try and partner with the likes of AWS and Azure to offer a more compelling upgrade path to existing clients on legacy infrastructure,” he said.
More widely, though, IBM’s move highlights the steady rise of cloud computing as the most valuable strategy for businesses.
“The biggest benefits accrue to the business from faster time-to-market, simplified innovation, easier scalability, and reduced risk,” consultancy firm McKinsey wrote in a report published in July.
“Cloud platforms can help deploy new digital customer experiences in days rather than months and can support analytics that would be uneconomical or simply impossible with traditional technology platforms.”
These changes have been only further accelerated by the outbreak of coronavirus, which has forced companies to adapt to more flexible ways of working.
“Thanks to the pandemic, 2020 may well become known as the year cloud came of age,” Presland said.
“Cloud has become the de facto way for businesses to run their operations, embraced for its unparalleled flexibility and scalability, helping companies adapt to the world of Covid, and whatever comes next.”


cityam--2020-10-09--Marston's and Carlsberg get green light for £780m brewing JV

Brewers Marston ’ s and Carlsberg have been given the go-ahead to complete a £780m joint venture after a Competition and Markets Authority ( CMA ) investigation .
Shares in London-listed Marston ’ s rose 16.7 per cent as markets cheered the decision .
Read more : Marston ’ s warns of uncertain outlook ahead of pub reopenings The UK ’ s competition watchdog said that as the two firms had different areas of focus , competition between the two was “ limited ” at present .
Carlsberg , it said , is generally focused on the production of lager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an ale maker .
“ While the establishment of the joint venture means that the two businesses are likely to distribute each other ’ s products more frequently , potentially leaving less room to take on other brands , the CMA found that brewers will continue to have sufficient alternative wholesalers to choose from after the merger.
” , it said in a statement .
The deal will conclude by the end of October , Marston ’ s said .
Before the Open newsletter : Start your day with the City View podcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the deal to merge their brewing businesses back in May .
The joint venture will value Martson ’ s brewing business at up to £580m and Carlsberg ’ s at £200m .
“ We welcome the decision by the CMA and wish to put on record our thanks to them for the thoroughness of their work in recent months .
“ The joint venture between Carlsberg UK and Marston ’ s PLC to form the Carlsberg Marston ’ s Brewing Company , unites two historic brewers with shared values , history and heritage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sustainable future in UK brewing .
“ Today ’ s decision is a significant milestone in the formation of the new company , which we believe will create significant value for employees , customers and beer-drinkers in the UK , and we look forward to moving to the next stage on this journey .
”

Marston’s and Carlsberg get green light for £780m brewing JV
Marston’s boss Ralph Findley will leave the brewer in October this year.
Brewers Marston’s and Carlsberg have been given the go-ahead to complete a £780m joint venture after a Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation.
Shares in London-listed Marston’s rose 16.7 per cent as markets cheered the decision.
The UK’s competition watchdog said that as the two firms had different areas of focus, competition between the two was “limited” at present.
Carlsberg, it said, is generally focused on the production of lager, while Marston’s is principally an ale maker.
“While the establishment of the joint venture means that the two businesses are likely to distribute each other’s products more frequently, potentially leaving less room to take on other brands, the CMA found that brewers will continue to have sufficient alternative wholesalers to choose from after the merger.”, it said in a statement.
The deal will conclude by the end of October, Marston’s said.
Before the Open newsletter: Start your day with the City View podcast and key market data
The two struck the deal to merge their brewing businesses back in May. The joint venture will value Martson’s brewing business at up to £580m and Carlsberg’s at £200m.
Tomasz Blawat, Carlsberg’s managing director, said:
“We welcome the decision by the CMA and wish to put on record our thanks to them for the thoroughness of their work in recent months.
“The joint venture between Carlsberg UK and Marston’s PLC to form the Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company, unites two historic brewers with shared values, history and heritage, to create a company with a sustainable future in UK brewing.
“Today’s decision is a significant milestone in the formation of the new company, which we believe will create significant value for employees, customers and beer-drinkers in the UK, and we look forward to moving to the next stage on this journey.”


cityam--2020-10-09--Rishi Sunak set to announce furlough extension in local lockdown areas

Chancellor Rishi Sunak is set to announce a limited extension to the furlough scheme today as the government faces mounting criticism over fresh local lockdown restrictions across the country .
Sunak will outline new support for people and businesses in England facing strict new measures set to come into force next week , including the closure of pubs and restaurants .
Read more : Coronavirus recovery stalls as UK economy grows just 2.1 per cent in August A Treasury spokesperson said : “ The chancellor will be setting out the next stage of the job support scheme later today , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safety net for those businesses that may have to close in the coming weeks and months.
” It comes as the government faces increasing scrutiny over plans to introduce new lockdown restrictions ahead of the end of the furlough scheme on 31 October .
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham suggested he would take the government to court to stop new measures being introduced without “ proper compensation and a local furlough scheme for staff ” .
Earlier this month the chancellor announced a new job support scheme to replace the current furlough scheme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working at least a third of their hours .
But senior figures in the hospitality industry have warned the new scheme will not be enough to support jobs in businesses already on their knees after months of closure and the recent introduction of a 10pm curfew .
Pub bosses yesterday called for a full extension of the furlough scheme amid hints the Prime Minister is considering sweeping closures in the North of England within the next few days .
Nick Mackenzie , chief executive of Greene King , said : “ The new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough .
It is imperative that we have a furlough scheme to protect jobs and other costs through the winter.
” Patrick Dardis , chief executive of Young ’ s , said : “ We need 100 per cent furlough support to be introduced from the day that there are lockdowns otherwise there are hundreds of thousands if not a million jobs across the industry that will be at risk.
” The pub chain last week warned that it would have to make around 500 workers redundant by the end of October as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as 5.3m people remained on the furlough scheme at the end of the July , the latest figures from HMRC showed , suggesting the scale of job losses that may lay on the horizon when the scheme winds to an end .
Trade body UK Hospitality , which represents more than 700 companies and 65,000 venues across Britain , said new restrictions without an extension to the furlough scheme were “ inarguable ” .
Read more : Pubs and bars in row over late night levy as 10pm curfew sinks sales Chief executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jobs and businesses , government support for hospitality must be at the same levels of the furlough scheme where there are forced closures , and two thirds of wages where curfews and other restrictions are seeing trade hit hard .
“ The inarguable fact is that all of the restrictions currently in place or under consideration , make it impossible for most venues to operate anywhere near profitably.
” Before the Open : Get the jump on the markets with our early morning newsletter

Rishi Sunak set to announce furlough extension in local lockdown areas
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is set to announce a limited extension to the furlough scheme today as the government faces mounting criticism over fresh local lockdown restrictions across the country.
Sunak will outline new support for people and businesses in England facing strict new measures set to come into force next week, including the closure of pubs and restaurants.
A Treasury spokesperson said: “The chancellor will be setting out the next stage of the job support scheme later today, that will protect jobs and provide a safety net for those businesses that may have to close in the coming weeks and months.”
It comes as the government faces increasing scrutiny over plans to introduce new lockdown restrictions ahead of the end of the furlough scheme on 31 October.
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham suggested he would take the government to court to stop new measures being introduced without “proper compensation and a local furlough scheme for staff”.
Earlier this month the chancellor announced a new job support scheme to replace the current furlough scheme, which would provide support for staff working at least a third of their hours.
But senior figures in the hospitality industry have warned the new scheme will not be enough to support jobs in businesses already on their knees after months of closure and the recent introduction of a 10pm curfew.
Pub bosses yesterday called for a full extension of the furlough scheme amid hints the Prime Minister is considering sweeping closures in the North of England within the next few days.
Nick Mackenzie, chief executive of Greene King, said: “The new job support scheme does not go far enough. It is imperative that we have a furlough scheme to protect jobs and other costs through the winter.”
Patrick Dardis, chief executive of Young’s, said: “We need 100 per cent furlough support to be introduced from the day that there are lockdowns otherwise there are hundreds of thousands if not a million jobs across the industry that will be at risk.”
The pub chain last week warned that it would have to make around 500 workers redundant by the end of October as the furlough scheme ends.
As many as 5.3m people remained on the furlough scheme at the end of the July, the latest figures from HMRC showed, suggesting the scale of job losses that may lay on the horizon when the scheme winds to an end.
Trade body UK Hospitality, which represents more than 700 companies and 65,000 venues across Britain, said new restrictions without an extension to the furlough scheme were “inarguable”.
Chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “To save jobs and businesses, government support for hospitality must be at the same levels of the furlough scheme where there are forced closures, and two thirds of wages where curfews and other restrictions are seeing trade hit hard.
“The inarguable fact is that all of the restrictions currently in place or under consideration, make it impossible for most venues to operate anywhere near profitably.”
Before the Open: Get the jump on the markets with our early morning newsletter


cityam--2020-10-09--Tracing app has sent just one alert about an outbreak in a venue

The contact-tracing app for England and Wales has reportedly sent only one alert about an outbreak of coronavirus in a venue since its launch two weeks ago .
The tracing app , which has been downloaded 16 million times , tells users whether or not they ’ ve been near someone who has tested positive for coronavirus .
Read more : More than 1,000 Deloitte consultants working on Test and Trace programme Its QR code scanner allows people to check in at venues , and if there is an outbreak at a venue then an NHS Test and Trace alert @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hailed the app as an important step and passed a new law making it illegal for venues not to display the official NHS QR code .
But the efficacy of the contact tracing app has once more been called in question after Sky News reported that only four alerts have been sent out about outbreaks in venues , three of which expired before the app was launched nationwide .
The broadcaster also revealed that data about check-ins is stored locally on phones , so when the alert is sent it can not name @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place .
Instead , it says : “ We are letting you know that you have been exposed to coronavirus when you were out.
” It tells people to watch out for symptoms rather than giving any specific advice .
And given the privacy-protecting design , public health officials are unable to look at the data to see who has checked in at a venue using the app .
The government ’ s test and trace programme has been responsible for a series of embarrassing failures .
Last week it was revealed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 2 October were not uploaded to national statics or passed on to contact tracers .
Shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said the missing results meant as many as 48,000 contacts had been traced or isolated .
Read more : New test and trace app will not alert one in three people after a positive test And a glitch in the app , which has resulted in thousands of users receiving “ ghost ” notifications , has still not been resolved .
Officials have claimed the notifications do not indicate a user has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has tested positive for coronavirus .
The Department of Health and Social Care did not respond to a request for comment .

Tracing app has sent just one alert about an outbreak in a venue
The new NHS Covid-19 contact tracing app (Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)
The contact-tracing app for England and Wales has reportedly sent only one alert about an outbreak of coronavirus in a venue since its launch two weeks ago.
The tracing app, which has been downloaded 16 million times, tells users whether or not they’ve been near someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.
Its QR code scanner allows people to check in at venues, and if there is an outbreak at a venue then an NHS Test and Trace alert is sent to them.
The government hailed the app as an important step and passed a new law making it illegal for venues not to display the official NHS QR code.
But the efficacy of the contact tracing app has once more been called in question after Sky News reported that only four alerts have been sent out about outbreaks in venues, three of which expired before the app was launched nationwide.
The broadcaster also revealed that data about check-ins is stored locally on phones, so when the alert is sent it cannot name the venue where the outbreak has taken place.
Instead, it says: “We are letting you know that you have been exposed to coronavirus when you were out.”
It tells people to watch out for symptoms rather than giving any specific advice.
And given the privacy-protecting design, public health officials are unable to look at the data to see who has checked in at a venue using the app.
The government’s test and trace programme has been responsible for a series of embarrassing failures. Last week it was revealed that nearly 16,000 positive cases between 25 September and 2 October were not uploaded to national statics or passed on to contact tracers.
Shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said the missing results meant as many as 48,000 contacts had been traced or isolated.
And a glitch in the app, which has resulted in thousands of users receiving “ghost” notifications, has still not been resolved.
Officials have claimed the notifications do not indicate a user has been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus.
The Department of Health and Social Care did not respond to a request for comment.


cityam--2020-10-09--Major Tory donor, head of Garden Bridge and Brexit advisers receive top gongs in Queen’s Birthday Ho

One of the largest Conservative party donors , the head of the failed £40m Garden Bridge and 10 Brexit advisers were among the senior figures to receive awards in this year ’ s Queen ’ s Birthday Honours list .
Tony Gallagher , who has donated almost £4m to the Conservative party over the last 13 years , was awarded a knighthood for his “ services to land development and the property business ” , the Cabinet Office announced today .
Read more : TfL boss that oversaw Crossrail and Garden Bridge fiascos set for an honour Gallagher has donated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the past two years via personal donations and through his Gallagher Limited and Countywide businesses .
The business tycoon , who manages a portfolio of properties across the world , is a long-time friend of several high-profile figures within the Conservative party .
Gallagher hosted David Cameron ’ s 50th birthday bash at his Grade II Sarsden House in Chipping Norton in 2016 .
Gallagher did not respond to City A.M ’ s request for comment .
Mike Brown , the former Transport for London commissioner who oversaw the failed £40m Garden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Crossrail project , was also awarded a gong in the Queen ’ s Birthday list this evening .
An inquiry by the London Assembly into the failed London project found that risks of the doomed bridge were “ downplayed ” to satisfy Boris Johnson when he was mayor of London .
Asked whether pressure was put on him to push the scheme through , Brown said : “ Political pressure was not applied to me personally , but I was aware there was a lot of dialogue going on from the mayor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team.
” Brown was today awarded a CBE for his services to the transport sector .
London mayor Sadiq Khan mistakenly tweeted out news of his award this morning , taking to the social media platform to tell Brown : “ Your work is a true testament to the values of community and support that underpin our city.
” Ten Brexit advisers were also handed out honours for their services to the government ’ s strategy for leaving the EU .
Four members of the Department for Exiting the EU ( DExEU ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including permanent secretary Clare Moriarty , director Nathan Phillips and senior private secretary Kate Bennett .
Six leaders of local Conservative party groups were also awarded honours in this year ’ s list , while zero Labour affiliates were recognised .
Shanika Amarasekara , general counsel of the British Business Bank , which has been in charge of the UK ’ s Bounce Back Loans ( BBLs ) , was also awarded an OBE in this year ’ s honours list .
Small businesses have told City A.M. over the past few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of potentially life-saving loans , because lenders are turning down new customers , despite the funds being fully guaranteed by the government .
It comes after this year ’ s honours list was postponed so that individuals who played crucial roles in the wake of the pandemic could be added to the roster .
The Cabinet Office said it had made pains to “ symbolise and showcase the spirit ” of the UK through its honours list this year .
A pub quiz master , pizza chef and delivery driver were among the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honoured in this year ’ s Queen ’ s Birthday List , as the government used the moment to praise individuals vital to the nation ’ s fight against Covid-19 .
Dame Jane Acre , UCL professor and chair of the awards , said : “ This honours lit is really quite special — it includes recipients from across all key sectors.
” Acre added the list “ represents the breadth of service given by people of all backgrounds across the UK.
” Dizzee Rascal , Mary Berry , Paul Smith , Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were included in the list of celebrities recognised in the Queen ’ s Birthday Honours .
Marcus Rashford was awarded an MBE for his services “ to vulnerable children in the UK during Covid-19 , ” after the footballer won a high-profile campaign urging the government to extend free school meals during lockdown .
City figures also topped the list .
Emma Walmsley , chief executive of GlaxoSmithKline , and Clare Woodman , chief executive of Morgan Stanley , were both awarded damehoods .
Read more : David Dimbleby throws hat in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officer Andrew Stylianou took home an OBE , while Amelia Fletcher , board member of the Financial Conduct Authority ( FCA ) and Richard Pennycoock , co-chair of the British Retail Consortium , were both handed CBEs .
Dame Jane said : “ This pandemic is going to be with us for some time , and this is just the first group of people who we ’ ve looked at .
There will be more people as we go on .
“ This is the beginning of a story that we will continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the jump on the markets with our early morning newsletter

Major Tory donor, head of Garden Bridge and Brexit advisers receive top gongs in Queen’s Birthday Honours list
Queen Elizabeth
One of the largest Conservative party donors, the head of the failed £40m Garden Bridge and 10 Brexit advisers were among the senior figures to receive awards in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours list.
Tony Gallagher, who has donated almost £4m to the Conservative party over the last 13 years, was awarded a knighthood for his “services to land development and the property business”, the Cabinet Office announced today.
Gallagher has donated more than £1.7m to the Tory party over the past two years via personal donations and through his Gallagher Limited and Countywide businesses.
The business tycoon, who manages a portfolio of properties across the world, is a long-time friend of several high-profile figures within the Conservative party. Gallagher hosted David Cameron’s 50th birthday bash at his Grade II Sarsden House in Chipping Norton in 2016.
Gallagher did not respond to City A.M’s request for comment.
Mike Brown, the former Transport for London commissioner who oversaw the failed £40m Garden Bridge project and years of delays to the Crossrail project, was also awarded a gong in the Queen’s Birthday list this evening.
An inquiry by the London Assembly into the failed London project found that risks of the doomed bridge were “downplayed” to satisfy Boris Johnson when he was mayor of London.
Asked whether pressure was put on him to push the scheme through, Brown said: “Political pressure was not applied to me personally, but I was aware there was a lot of dialogue going on from the mayor’s office to people in my team.”
Brown was today awarded a CBE for his services to the transport sector.
London mayor Sadiq Khan mistakenly tweeted out news of his award this morning, taking to the social media platform to tell Brown: “Your work is a true testament to the values of community and support that underpin our city.”
Ten Brexit advisers were also handed out honours for their services to the government’s strategy for leaving the EU.
Four members of the Department for Exiting the EU (DExEU) were recognised for their services to government, including permanent secretary Clare Moriarty, director Nathan Phillips and senior private secretary Kate Bennett.
Six leaders of local Conservative party groups were also awarded honours in this year’s list, while zero Labour affiliates were recognised.
Shanika Amarasekara, general counsel of the British Business Bank, which has been in charge of the UK’s Bounce Back Loans (BBLs), was also awarded an OBE in this year’s honours list.
Small businesses have told City A.M. over the past few days that they are being shut out of potentially life-saving loans, because lenders are turning down new customers, despite the funds being fully guaranteed by the government.
The Cabinet Office declined City A.M‘s request to comment.
It comes after this year’s honours list was postponed so that individuals who played crucial roles in the wake of the pandemic could be added to the roster.
Diversity
The Cabinet Office said it had made pains to “symbolise and showcase the spirit” of the UK through its honours list this year.
A pub quiz master, pizza chef and delivery driver were among the swathe of “unsung community heroes” honoured in this year’s Queen’s Birthday List, as the government used the moment to praise individuals vital to the nation’s fight against Covid-19.
Dame Jane Acre, UCL professor and chair of the awards, said: “This honours lit is really quite special — it includes recipients from across all key sectors.”
Acre added the list “represents the breadth of service given by people of all backgrounds across the UK.”
Dizzee Rascal, Mary Berry, Paul Smith, Joe Wicks, David Suchet and Lorraine Kelly were included in the list of celebrities recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Marcus Rashford was awarded an MBE for his services “to vulnerable children in the UK during Covid-19,” after the footballer won a high-profile campaign urging the government to extend free school meals during lockdown.
City figures also topped the list. Emma Walmsley, chief executive of GlaxoSmithKline, and Clare Woodman, chief executive of Morgan Stanley, were both awarded damehoods.
Sky chief operating officer Andrew Stylianou took home an OBE, while Amelia Fletcher, board member of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Richard Pennycoock, co-chair of the British Retail Consortium, were both handed CBEs.
Dame Jane said: “This pandemic is going to be with us for some time, and this is just the first group of people who we’ve looked at. There will be more people as we go on.
“This is the beginning of a story that we will continue with.”
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cityam--2020-10-09--David Dimbleby throws hat in the ring for BBC chairman

Media veteran David Dimbleby has announced he is considering a bid for BBC chairman , claiming he was “ horrified ” by reports that former Telegraph editor Lord Charles Moore was the Prime Minister ’ s top pick for the job .
The TV presenter , best known for hosting political debate show Question Time , told the BBC speculation that Moore was tipped for the job forced him to consider applying for the role .
Read more : Former No 10 spin doctor Sir Robbie Gibb tipped for BBC chairman role “ His appointment as chairman would have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m glad it fell apart , ” said Dimbleby .
“ I was going to put my name forward to be chairman .
“ For [ Boris ] Johnson to put in post somebody who hates the BBC was very dangerous for the BBC , ” he added .
Asked if he was still considering the position , Dimbleby said : “ I still might , depending on who comes forward… [ The paperwork ] hasn ’ t yet come through.
” Moore last week ruled himself out of the race @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following furious backlash from industry figures who claimed the former Telegraph editor would “ destroy ” the broadcaster .
Moore has long-argued for the abolition of the licence fee , and was fined £262 by a court in 2010 for refusing to pay it .
Earlier this year , the BBC arch-critic said the licence fee was “ the greatest single wrong on which the BBC rests ” and an “ offence to freedom ” .
Julian Knight , Tory MP and chair of the culture select committee , said appointing a man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as BBC chairman was “ like being convicted of fraud and being in a bank ” .
Moore also faced accusations of racism , sexism and homophobia following the unearthing of some of his previous journalism , including a 1992 article in the Spectator in which he drew on stereotypes of Korean and African American culture .
Speaking to the BBC ’ s Newscast podcast today , Dimbleby said : “ I was horrified when I read that Charles Moore had been lined up for the chairmanship .
Not because of his political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBC .
“ No politicians have ever liked the BBC .
Harold Wilson was against us ; John Major was ; Margaret Thatcher certainly was ; Boris Johnson is .
The BBC is a thorn in the side of government and that ’ s its job .
And therefore , it ’ s always disliked by government.
” Read more : New BBC boss Tim Davie ‘ prepared to fire stars ’ who break impartiality rules Dimbleby added : “ It ’ s not there to put forward propaganda or a position , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kind of constantly-aware listening post , because everybody pays for it and it belongs to everybody .
“ And I thought the idea of the Prime Minister putting in somebody who actually didn ’ t take that view and had a kind of clear , his own clear personal vision of what the BBC should be like , was dangerous.
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David Dimbleby throws hat in the ring for BBC chairman
Media veteran David Dimbleby has announced he is considering a bid for BBC chairman, claiming he was “horrified” by reports that former Telegraph editor Lord Charles Moore was the Prime Minister’s top pick for the job.
The TV presenter, best known for hosting political debate show Question Time, told the BBC speculation that Moore was tipped for the job forced him to consider applying for the role.
“His appointment as chairman would have been a malign intervention by the Prime Minister… I’m glad it fell apart,” said Dimbleby. “I was going to put my name forward to be chairman.
“For [Boris] Johnson to put in post somebody who hates the BBC was very dangerous for the BBC,” he added.
Asked if he was still considering the position, Dimbleby said: “I still might, depending on who comes forward… [The paperwork] hasn’t yet come through.”
Moore last week ruled himself out of the race to replace current BBC chair David Clementi following furious backlash from industry figures who claimed the former Telegraph editor would “destroy” the broadcaster.
Moore has long-argued for the abolition of the licence fee, and was fined £262 by a court in 2010 for refusing to pay it.
Earlier this year, the BBC arch-critic said the licence fee was “the greatest single wrong on which the BBC rests” and an “offence to freedom”.
Julian Knight, Tory MP and chair of the culture select committee, said appointing a man who refused to pay a licence fee as BBC chairman was “like being convicted of fraud and being in a bank”.
Moore also faced accusations of racism, sexism and homophobia following the unearthing of some of his previous journalism, including a 1992 article in the Spectator in which he drew on stereotypes of Korean and African American culture.
Speaking to the BBC’s Newscast podcast today, Dimbleby said: “I was horrified when I read that Charles Moore had been lined up for the chairmanship. Not because of his political views, but because he hates the BBC.
“No politicians have ever liked the BBC. Harold Wilson was against us; John Major was; Margaret Thatcher certainly was; Boris Johnson is. The BBC is a thorn in the side of government and that’s its job. And therefore, it’s always disliked by government.”
Dimbleby added: “It’s not there to put forward propaganda or a position, it’s there to be a kind of constantly-aware listening post, because everybody pays for it and it belongs to everybody.
“And I thought the idea of the Prime Minister putting in somebody who actually didn’t take that view and had a kind of clear, his own clear personal vision of what the BBC should be like, was dangerous.”
Main image: Getty
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cityam--2020-10-09--Business bodies urge chancellor to ‘go further’ with new furlough scheme

Businesses in the hospitality sector have said Rishi Sunak ’ s support package “ must go further ” to avoid wide-scale job losses , after the chancellor today unveiled a new furlough scheme for businesses facing local lockdowns .
Sunak today said the government will pay two thirds of employees ’ salaries to businesses forced to shutter under fresh lockdown measures .
Firms whose premises are legally required to shut “ for some period over winter as part of local or national restrictions ” will receive grants of up to £2,100 per month to pay the wages of staff who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Throughout the crisis the driving force of our economic policy has not changed .
I have always said that we will do whatever is necessary to protect jobs and livelihoods as the situation evolves.
” Greene King chief executive Nick Mackenzie said : “ The latest support measures announced by the chancellor provide a lifeline to pubs forced to close but [ don ’ t ] go far enough when we ’ re facing devastating restrictions in an increasing number of areas .
Greene King earlier this week announced it was preparing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK , putting hundreds of jobs at risk as lockdown restrictions continue to weigh on the sector .
Mackenzie , who yesterday joined a coalition of pub bosses calling on the chancellor to extend the furlough scheme , said the current 10pm curfew was already “ making it increasingly unviable for pubs to trade and threatening more closures ” .
“ The winter is set to be an incredibly difficult time for the industry and the sector needs help to take a longer-term view , ” he added .
Trade body UK Hospitality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 65,000 venues across Britain , welcomed the announcement but said further support was “ crucial ” for businesses already struggling to survive .
Chief executive Kate Nicholls said : “ Paying two thirds of wages for employees in lockdown is a welcome step and it is encouraging to see that the chancellor has introduced flexibility and a sector-specific approach .
“ However , worryingly , it does nothing to address the issues faced by sector businesses operating well below capacity due to restrictions and consumers avoiding travel and struggling to keep their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government ’ s introduction last month of a 10pm curfew for all hospitality venues “ has been crippling ” for many businesses , with sales down 30 per cent even in low areas of infection .
“ The need now is no less — possibly is even more — than the first lockdown , so a more comprehensive package of financial support is crucial , ” she added .
“ The financial support on offer must go further if tragic levels of closures and redundancies are to be averted.
” Businesses will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new scheme , but will have to cover National Insurance and pension contributions .
Roger Barker , director of policy at the Institute of Directors ( IoD ) , urged the government to slash all payment liabilities for firms facing local lockdowns .
“ The Treasury has understandably focused on defensive measures , but it should also try to get on the front foot where possible , ” said Barker .
“ To help those firms who are finding chinks of light to create jobs , employer national insurance costs should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investment in technology , the green economy , and skills will help create new opportunities to replace those being negatively impacted by the pandemic.
” “ The government should also remain alive to the potential second-order impacts of local lockdowns – which will affect firms in other areas and across the supply chain , ” he added .
The Federation of Small Businesses ( FSB ) said the new support measures would “ bring some hope to those businesses which are still bearing the brunt of restrictions , ” but warned the support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses .
“ We now need to look at what comes next in terms of further evolution of support mechanisms , especially for those who will not directly benefit from today ’ s announcement , ” said FSB chair Mike Cherry .
“ A comprehensive rescue package for those excluded is urgently needed .
Policymakers should also go further to cut day-to-day overheads for small firms .
Our business rates system remains an outdated drag on too many , despite very welcome efforts to relieve the strain for some.
” Read more : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amid uneven recovery Cherry echoed the IoD ’ s calls to scrap the requirement for businesses to pay National Insurance and pension contributions .
“ With thousands still struggling to access bounce back loans , the Treasury should now be looking at what succeeds emergency loan schemes to ensure that banks keep lending to small firms beyond the end of this year , thereby stimulating the real economy , ” he said .
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Business bodies urge chancellor to ‘go further’ with new furlough scheme
Businesses in the hospitality sector have said Rishi Sunak’s support package “must go further” to avoid wide-scale job losses, after the chancellor today unveiled a new furlough scheme for businesses facing local lockdowns.
Sunak today said the government will pay two thirds of employees’ salaries to businesses forced to shutter under fresh lockdown measures.
Firms whose premises are legally required to shut “for some period over winter as part of local or national restrictions” will receive grants of up to £2,100 per month to pay the wages of staff who cannot work.
Sunak said: “Throughout the crisis the driving force of our economic policy has not changed. I have always said that we will do whatever is necessary to protect jobs and livelihoods as the situation evolves.”
‘Must go further’
Greene King chief executive Nick Mackenzie said: “The latest support measures announced by the chancellor provide a lifeline to pubs forced to close but [don’t] go far enough when we’re facing devastating restrictions in an increasing number of areas.
Greene King earlier this week announced it was preparing to permanently close 26 sites across the UK, putting hundreds of jobs at risk as lockdown restrictions continue to weigh on the sector.
Mackenzie, who yesterday joined a coalition of pub bosses calling on the chancellor to extend the furlough scheme, said the current 10pm curfew was already “making it increasingly unviable for pubs to trade and threatening more closures”.
“The winter is set to be an incredibly difficult time for the industry and the sector needs help to take a longer-term view,” he added.
Trade body UK Hospitality, which represents more than 700 companies and 65,000 venues across Britain, welcomed the announcement but said further support was “crucial” for businesses already struggling to survive.
Chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “Paying two thirds of wages for employees in lockdown is a welcome step and it is encouraging to see that the chancellor has introduced flexibility and a sector-specific approach.
“However, worryingly, it does nothing to address the issues faced by sector businesses operating well below capacity due to restrictions and consumers avoiding travel and struggling to keep their workforce employed.”
Nicholls added that the government’s introduction last month of a 10pm curfew for all hospitality venues “has been crippling” for many businesses, with sales down 30 per cent even in low areas of infection.
“The need now is no less — possibly is even more — than the first lockdown, so a more comprehensive package of financial support is crucial,” she added.
“The financial support on offer must go further if tragic levels of closures and redundancies are to be averted.”
Rishi Sunak announced the support measures today as England faces further local lockdowns
Front foot forward
Businesses will not be required to contribute to wages under the new scheme, but will have to cover National Insurance and pension contributions.
Roger Barker, director of policy at the Institute of Directors (IoD), urged the government to slash all payment liabilities for firms facing local lockdowns.
“The Treasury has understandably focused on defensive measures, but it should also try to get on the front foot where possible,” said Barker.
“To help those firms who are finding chinks of light to create jobs, employer national insurance costs should be cut. Tax reliefs to support substantial investment in technology, the green economy, and skills will help create new opportunities to replace those being negatively impacted by the pandemic.”
“The government should also remain alive to the potential second-order impacts of local lockdowns – which will affect firms in other areas and across the supply chain,” he added.
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said the new support measures would “bring some hope to those businesses which are still bearing the brunt of restrictions,” but warned the support package will not apply to all struggling businesses.
“We now need to look at what comes next in terms of further evolution of support mechanisms, especially for those who will not directly benefit from today’s announcement,” said FSB chair Mike Cherry.
“A comprehensive rescue package for those excluded is urgently needed. Policymakers should also go further to cut day-to-day overheads for small firms. Our business rates system remains an outdated drag on too many, despite very welcome efforts to relieve the strain for some.”
Cherry echoed the IoD’s calls to scrap the requirement for businesses to pay National Insurance and pension contributions.
“With thousands still struggling to access bounce back loans, the Treasury should now be looking at what succeeds emergency loan schemes to ensure that banks keep lending to small firms beyond the end of this year, thereby stimulating the real economy,” he said.
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cityam--2020-10-09--Get ahead with a NED? How non-executive directors have evolved

‘ You can not rely on others to seek you out – you must put in a concerted effort to obtaining a directorship .
So network , wear out the shoe leather and be prepared to drink a lot of coffee ’ : so advises a guide for senior professionals seeking to become a non-executive director ( NED ) .
Spencer Stuart , the executive search and leadership advisory company that published the booklet , also produces an annual ‘ board index ’ that crunches the governance data of the largest 150 companies in the FTSE rankings .
Its most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ upsurge in first-time board appointments as companies look to appoint younger directors , correct diversity imbalance and bring in people with specific technology or geographic expertise .
In all , a record 72 % of FTSE 150 boards appointed a new non-executive director during the year ; and , for the first time , the majority of these new directors were women .
‘ A View at the Top : Boardroom Trends in Britain ’ s Top 100 Companies ’ , published last year by the Chartered Governance Institute ( based on 2017 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equally interesting – data on NEDs .
In 1996 , FTSE 100 boards ( on average ) comprised 51 % non-executive directors and 49 % executive directors .
Fast forward more than two decades and the balance had shifted significantly , with NEDs up to 74 % .
Quite the change .
NEDs ’ increasing importance ( among public companies ) is largely explained by the recommendations of various corporate governance reviews and the evolution of relevant guidelines , most notably the Financial Reporting Council ( FRC ’ s ) corporate governance code @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2018 .
“ The code is updated regularly to promote good practice and respond to public concerns , for example the lack of diversity in companies and high levels of remunerations , ” explains Maureen Beresford , the FRC ’ s head of corporate governance .
“ NEDs now sit on the committees within public companies that oversee these matters to achieve balanced decision-making in these areas.
” One specific trend to catch Beresford ’ s eye over the past year or so is that , she says , an increasing number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ link between the board and employees .
“ The FRC will be assessing whether this approach , as opposed to having a worker on a board or using an advisory panel , is an effective way of improving company culture and building trust in business , ” she says .
“ The consensus is that groupthink is no longer welcome in the boardroom .
A diverse debate leads to better decisions and better outcomes , ” says Will Dawkins , a partner in Spencer Stuart ’ s UK board practice .
Over time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” and increasing requirement for specific skills in the NED position , with companies taking an increasingly longer-term view of their needs .
He says that , for example , banks tend to increasingly be looking for NEDs experienced in ‘ hot ’ strategically important fields such as consumer behaviour and digital business .
The Chartered Governance Institute ’ s policy and research director Peter Swabey has observed similar trends .
“ Many years ago , an NED might sometimes be little more than a glittering name on the letterhead , and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the modern business world it is far from the truth , ” he says .
“ For many companies as much work goes into the selection of a new NED as to an executive director , sometimes more , ” Swabey continues .
“ Significant thought is given to the skills of existing board members , the skills that the company needs them to have , and the skills that the company will need its directors to have in three or five years ’ time and then to ensuring that any potential new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fit the gaps that this process has identified.
” Now there ’ s coronavirus ’ s impact to consider , too .
A report published this month by EY ’ s UK Centre for Board Matters , based on a survey of NEDs undertaken during late 2019 and early 2020 , says that 78 % believe the NED role has become more time-consuming in recent years .
‘ We expect these pressures to further increase as boards respond to the immediate and longer-term impacts of Covid-19 , ’ the report concludes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ potential ’ Boardroom trends in the biggest quoted companies capture the headlines but NEDs also have an important role in many private companies , too .
Gerry Brown , an experienced board member and author of recently published book ‘ The Independent Director in Society ’ , says there are typically significant differences between NEDs at public companies and those working for typically smaller private companies .
“ At public companies the role is largely about governance whereas in private companies it ’ s more about bringing value , through ways such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Institute of Directors senior policy adviser Carum Basra says he has seen particular growth in the prominence of NEDs among larger , private companies in recent years .
In these situations , Basra says NEDs usually have a role in challenging the owners but also potentially providing connections .
“ NEDs can really help a family business , ” he says .
“ Having an NED can help unlock their potential.
” One NED aiming to do just that is Graham Goodkind , who believes the phrase ‘ non-executive director ’ can suffer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Over 20 years Goodkind built and sold a successful PR company , Frank PR , before launching My Dutch Uncle , a company by which he is providing non-executive-type services to a variety of organisations .
“ Being a non-executive director , or to use my terminology a ‘ Dutch Uncle ’ , appeals because of the variety of business challenges and how they require me to bring my experience to bear , ” Goodkind says .
“ I think NEDs should bring more panache and less process .
Too many entrepreneurs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a chore – a person who is there to ask the boring questions .
A non-exec should be someone who can really help drive the business forward with fresh thinking and ideas .
I think there ’ s an increasing number of CEOs who value that very frank type of non-exec on their boards.
” Within the FTSE 150 , the average age of a ‘ first-time ’ NED is 53.1 years old , according to Spencer Stuart ’ s research ( with the average age of NEDs being 60 ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ retainer at £69,238 and average total NED pay coming in just shy of six figures at £97,837 .
With the pandemic causing many people to revaluate their careers , perhaps an increasing number of experienced City workers may be wearing out their shoes and ordering coffee for two .

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Get ahead with a NED? How non-executive directors have evolved
‘You cannot rely on others to seek you out – you must put in a concerted effort to obtaining a directorship. So network, wear out the shoe leather and be prepared to drink a lot of coffee’: so advises a guide for senior professionals seeking to become a non-executive director (NED).
Spencer Stuart, the executive search and leadership advisory company that published the booklet, also produces an annual ‘board index’ that crunches the governance data of the largest 150 companies in the FTSE rankings. Its most recent edition (2018-2019) reported an upsurge in first-time board appointments as companies look to appoint younger directors, correct diversity imbalance and bring in people with specific technology or geographic expertise.
In all, a record 72 per cent of FTSE 150 boards appointed a new non-executive director during the year; and, for the first time, the majority of these new directors were women.
‘A View at the Top: Boardroom Trends in Britain’s Top 100 Companies’, published last year by the Chartered Governance Institute (based on 2017 data), contained longer-term – and equally interesting – data on NEDs. In 1996, FTSE 100 boards (on average) comprised 51% non-executive directors and 49% executive directors. Fast forward more than two decades and the balance had shifted significantly, with NEDs up to 74%. Quite the change.
NEDs’ influence on the rise
NEDs’ increasing importance (among public companies) is largely explained by the recommendations of various corporate governance reviews and the evolution of relevant guidelines, most notably the Financial Reporting Council (FRC’s) corporate governance code, which was most recently updated in 2018.
“The code is updated regularly to promote good practice and respond to public concerns, for example the lack of diversity in companies and high levels of remunerations,” explains Maureen Beresford, the FRC’s head of corporate governance. “NEDs now sit on the committees within public companies that oversee these matters to achieve balanced decision-making in these areas.”
One specific trend to catch Beresford’s eye over the past year or so is that, she says, an increasing number of NEDs are now acting as a direct link between the board and employees. “The FRC will be assessing whether this approach, as opposed to having a worker on a board or using an advisory panel, is an effective way of improving company culture and building trust in business,” she says.
‘Groupthink no longer welcome’
“The consensus is that groupthink is no longer welcome in the boardroom. A diverse debate leads to better decisions and better outcomes,” says Will Dawkins, a partner in Spencer Stuart’s UK board practice.
Over time, Dawkins has observed “growing professionalisation” and increasing requirement for specific skills in the NED position, with companies taking an increasingly longer-term view of their needs. He says that, for example, banks tend to increasingly be looking for NEDs experienced in ‘hot’ strategically important fields such as consumer behaviour and digital business.
The Chartered Governance Institute’s policy and research director Peter Swabey has observed similar trends. “Many years ago, an NED might sometimes be little more than a glittering name on the letterhead, and that perception can still exist, but in the modern business world it is far from the truth,” he says.
“For many companies as much work goes into the selection of a new NED as to an executive director, sometimes more,” Swabey continues. “Significant thought is given to the skills of existing board members, the skills that the company needs them to have, and the skills that the company will need its directors to have in three or five years’ time and then to ensuring that any potential new NED has the relevant palette of skills to fit the gaps that this process has identified.”
Now there’s coronavirus’s impact to consider, too. A report published this month by EY’s UK Centre for Board Matters, based on a survey of NEDs undertaken during late 2019 and early 2020, says that 78% believe the NED role has become more time-consuming in recent years. ‘We expect these pressures to further increase as boards respond to the immediate and longer-term impacts of Covid-19,’ the report concludes.
‘Having an NED can help unlock potential’
Boardroom trends in the biggest quoted companies capture the headlines but NEDs also have an important role in many private companies, too.
Gerry Brown, an experienced board member and author of recently published book ‘The Independent Director in Society’, says there are typically significant differences between NEDs at public companies and those working for typically smaller private companies. “At public companies the role is largely about governance whereas in private companies it’s more about bringing value, through ways such as your connections,” he says.
Institute of Directors senior policy adviser Carum Basra says he has seen particular growth in the prominence of NEDs among larger, private companies in recent years. In these situations, Basra says NEDs usually have a role in challenging the owners but also potentially providing connections. “NEDs can really help a family business,” he says. “Having an NED can help unlock their potential.”
One NED aiming to do just that is Graham Goodkind, who believes the phrase ‘non-executive director’ can suffer from an over-association with corporate governance requirements. Over 20 years Goodkind built and sold a successful PR company, Frank PR, before launching My Dutch Uncle, a company by which he is providing non-executive-type services to a variety of organisations.
“Being a non-executive director, or to use my terminology a ‘Dutch Uncle’, appeals because of the variety of business challenges and how they require me to bring my experience to bear,” Goodkind says. “I think NEDs should bring more panache and less process. Too many entrepreneurs view having a non-exec as a bit of a chore – a person who is there to ask the boring questions. A non-exec should be someone who can really help drive the business forward with fresh thinking and ideas. I think there’s an increasing number of CEOs who value that very frank type of non-exec on their boards.”
Approaching 53 years old…?
Within the FTSE 150, the average age of a ‘first-time’ NED is 53.1 years old, according to Spencer Stuart’s research (with the average age of NEDs being 60).
The same dataset has the average non-executive retainer at £69,238 and average total NED pay coming in just shy of six figures at £97,837.
With the pandemic causing many people to revaluate their careers, perhaps an increasing number of experienced City workers may be wearing out their shoes and ordering coffee for two.


cityam--2020-10-09--OECD's digital tax proposals gain broad support, German finance minister says

More than 130 countries have agreed on a plan for reforms of global corporate taxation , which is due to be discussed by G20 finance ministers next week .
The OECD has been working on plans to introduce rules for businesses to pay tax where they do business rather than where they are registered .
They represent the biggest overhaul of international tax rules in a generation .
Read more : The digital services tax is targeting the wrong companies The two-pillar plan discussed this week addresses how big technology companies are taxed .
Pillar 1 would reallocate the profits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the second pillar would create a global minimum tax rate .
The organisation estimates it could bring in an additional $ 100bn ( £77.2bn ) in national tax revenues a year .
“ With a unanimous agreement on a blueprint for reforming the global corporate tax code we have taken a major step forward , ” German finance minister Olaf Scholz said in a statement .
“ This is a positive signal and I ’ m sure that by the summer of next year we will be able to reach a final agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week , negotiators said they will ask Washington and G20 partners to reaffirm support for global rules amid the pandemic and looming US elections .
Without a deal , digital companies face new national taxes on their services and potential double taxation , as countries seek revenue amid the coronavirus outbreak .
Read more : France calls on EU to adopt digital tax in 2021 if OECD talks fail The US has been reluctant to introduce a digital tax and slapped France with retaliatory tariffs earlier this year .
Treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European countries did not halt their plans for independen digital taxes , including the UK .

OECD’s digital tax proposals gain broad support, German finance minister says
German Finance Minister and Vice-Chancellor Olaf Scholz (Photo by ODD ANDERSEN/AFP via Getty Images)
More than 130 countries have agreed on a plan for reforms of global corporate taxation, which is due to be discussed by G20 finance ministers next week.
The OECD has been working on plans to introduce rules for businesses to pay tax where they do business rather than where they are registered. They represent the biggest overhaul of international tax rules in a generation.
The two-pillar plan discussed this week addresses how big technology companies are taxed. Pillar 1 would reallocate the profits of some of these firms, while the second pillar would create a global minimum tax rate.
The organisation estimates it could bring in an additional $100bn (£77.2bn) in national tax revenues a year.
“With a unanimous agreement on a blueprint for reforming the global corporate tax code we have taken a major step forward,” German finance minister Olaf Scholz said in a statement. “This is a positive signal and I’m sure that by the summer of next year we will be able to reach a final agreement on this reform plan.”
Earlier this week, negotiators said they will ask Washington and G20 partners to reaffirm support for global rules amid the pandemic and looming US elections.
Without a deal, digital companies face new national taxes on their services and potential double taxation, as countries seek revenue amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The US has been reluctant to introduce a digital tax and slapped France with retaliatory tariffs earlier this year.
Treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin threatened to leave the talks if several European countries did not halt their plans for independen digital taxes, including the UK.


cityam--2020-10-09--Norwegian Air set to close Gatwick short-haul base

Norwegian Air has today begun proceedings to shut its short-haul base at Gatwick Airport , with 259 jobs at risk of being lost .
The airline said the move would not affect its flight schedule out of the airport .
Read more : Easyjet on track for first ever full year loss The low-cost carrier employs 1,142 people at the Sussex airport , which is the UK ’ s second largest .
Most of these are employed in Norwegian ’ s long-haul crew base , which will remain untouched except for a tiny number of jobs , City A.M. understands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : “ The COVID-19 pandemic continues to severely impact our business and this prolonged crisis is far from over .
“ These unprecedented circumstances that we now find ourselves in require us to review the London Gatwick crew base in line with current business needs and the associated costs going forward .
“ We have entered into consultation with our crew colleagues and unions based in the in UK and will look to find common solutions and mitigate redundancies.
” Norwegian has been hammered by the coronavirus pandemic , which has destroyed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ September were 90 per cent down on last year , the airline revealed earlier this week , as quarantine restrictions kept passenger demand at record lows .
efore the Open newsletter : Start your day with the City View podcast and key market data It is currently in negotiations with officials in Norway for a second bailout deal , which could involve the government taking a state in the carrier .
An earlier rescue package saw ministers pump £250m into the carrier , which many analysts had said was on rocky ground even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debt pile .
Pilots ’ union Balpa said that the news was further evidence that UK aviation was “ in a death spiral ” .
General Secretary Brian Strutton said : “ This news is devastating for those affected and BALPA will do everything within its power to support its members , to avoid compulsory redundancies , reduce the number of employees to be dismissed and mitigate the consequences of any dismissals .
Read more : Norwegian Air in talks over potential nationalisation “ These latest proposed job losses are yet more evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on global aviation .
If the government fails to act to support the sector , we will see more job losses as airlines are decimated .
“ The government promised weeks ago that it would look urgently at measures like airport Covid-19 testing to help retore passenger confidence , but we are still to see any action in this area .
The government has let down the industry , its employees and the travelling public in this regard .
”

Norwegian Air set to close Gatwick short-haul base
In November the Irish Court place the struggling carrier under bankruptcy protection.
Norwegian Air has today begun proceedings to shut its short-haul base at Gatwick Airport, with 259 jobs at risk of being lost.
The airline said the move would not affect its flight schedule out of the airport.
The low-cost carrier employs 1,142 people at the Sussex airport, which is the UK’s second largest.
Most of these are employed in Norwegian’s long-haul crew base, which will remain untouched except for a tiny number of jobs, City A.M. understands.
A spokesperson for the Nordic carrier said: “The COVID-19 pandemic continues to severely impact our business and this prolonged crisis is far from over.
“These unprecedented circumstances that we now find ourselves in require us to review the London Gatwick crew base in line with current business needs and the associated costs going forward.
“We have entered into consultation with our crew colleagues and unions based in the in UK and will look to find common solutions and mitigate redundancies.”
Norwegian has been hammered by the coronavirus pandemic, which has destroyed international air travel.
Passenger numbers in September were 90 per cent down on last year, the airline revealed earlier this week, as quarantine restrictions kept passenger demand at record lows.
efore the Open newsletter: Start your day with the City View podcast and key market data
It is currently in negotiations with officials in Norway for a second bailout deal, which could involve the government taking a state in the carrier.
An earlier rescue package saw ministers pump £250m into the carrier, which many analysts had said was on rocky ground even before the pandemic due to its hefty debt pile.
Pilots’ union Balpa said that the news was further evidence that UK aviation was “in a death spiral”.
General Secretary Brian Strutton said: “This news is devastating for those affected and BALPA will do everything within its power to support its members, to avoid compulsory redundancies, reduce the number of employees to be dismissed and mitigate the consequences of any dismissals.
“These latest proposed job losses are yet more evidence of the devastating effect Covid-19 is having on global aviation. If the government fails to act to support the sector, we will see more job losses as airlines are decimated.
“The government promised weeks ago that it would look urgently at measures like airport Covid-19 testing to help retore passenger confidence, but we are still to see any action in this area. The government has let down the industry, its employees and the travelling public in this regard.”


cityam--2020-10-09--Bank of England’s use of fast data under fire after weak GDP figures

The Bank of England ’ s “ reliance ” on fast payments data that fed into upbeat predictions has come under fire after figures showed the UK economy performed much worse than expected in August .
The Bank has repeatedly referred to data from its Chaps payment system , which reflects sales companies make through card purchases , during the coronavirus pandemic .
Yet it does not publicly release the figures .
Read more : Coronavirus recovery stalls as UK economy grows just 2.1 per cent in August Andy Haldane , the BoE ’ s chief economist , cited Chaps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ so far ” been a V-shaped recovery .
In August , the Bank ’ s monetary policy report was more optimistic about the rebound than most other forecasters .
And last week , Haldane said that consumer spending “ now stands at around pre-Covid levels ” .
Yet Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) figures today showed that the economy grew just 2.1 per cent in August .
It was far below analysts ’ expectations of a 4.6 per cent expansion and the 6.4 per cent growth seen in July .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Chaps data that the Bank relies on , ” said Andrew Goodwin , chief UK economist at Oxford Economics .
“ We ’ re very concerned about how much weight they ’ re putting on this , ” he said .
“ The ONS data , which is seen as the gold standard for economic data , is telling us a completely different story.
” Samuel Tombs , chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics , said the data “ has to now be seriously down-weighted as a reliable source of information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been a big shift away from cash towards card spending .
This could mean Chaps and other high-frequency data monitoring cards were “ overstating ” the recovery in consumer spending , they said .
And Tombs said that because the Bank had not released the raw data or methodology , “ it ’ s hard to really critique it ” .
The Bank of England has been contacted for comment .
Simon French , chief economist at Panmure Gordon , said the Bank had “ been over-interpreting ” the “ sustainability ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s analysis was always valuable , however .
“ It is always useful to have a counter view , ” he said .
Yet he said Haldane ’ s comments should be looked at in tandem with the BoE ’ s relatively upbeat August economic forecasts .
“ Taken together , that ’ s a problem for the Bank , ” he said .
The BoE predicted that the UK economy would grow by 18 per cent in the third quarter .
It contracted 20 per cent in the second .
Tombs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now ” .
He said it would take “ an extraordinary ten per cent jump in GDP month on month in September ” .
Read more : Evidence on negative rates ‘ encouraging ’ , says Bank of England policymaker However , economists cautioned that the August figures could be heavily revised , given the difficulties caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
Ruth Gregory , senior UK economist at Capital Economics , said she thought the Bank would act as growth slowed .
She said it is likely expand quantitative easing by £250bn @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Bank of England’s use of fast data under fire after weak GDP figures
The Bank of England has been more positive than many other forecasters about the UK economy
The Bank of England’s “reliance” on fast payments data that fed into upbeat predictions has come under fire after figures showed the UK economy performed much worse than expected in August.
The Bank has repeatedly referred to data from its Chaps payment system, which reflects sales companies make through card purchases, during the coronavirus pandemic. Yet it does not publicly release the figures.
Andy Haldane, the BoE’s chief economist, cited Chaps data in June and said there had “so far” been a V-shaped recovery.
In August, the Bank’s monetary policy report was more optimistic about the rebound than most other forecasters. And last week, Haldane said that consumer spending “now stands at around pre-Covid levels”.
Yet Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures today showed that the economy grew just 2.1 per cent in August.
It was far below analysts’ expectations of a 4.6 per cent expansion and the 6.4 per cent growth seen in July.
Bank criticised for not publishing Chaps data
“There’s certainly an issue with the Chaps data that the Bank relies on,” said Andrew Goodwin, chief UK economist at Oxford Economics.
“We’re very concerned about how much weight they’re putting on this,” he said.
“The ONS data, which is seen as the gold standard for economic data, is telling us a completely different story.”
Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said the data “has to now be seriously down-weighted as a reliable source of information”.
Economists pointed out that there has been a big shift away from cash towards card spending. This could mean Chaps and other high-frequency data monitoring cards were “overstating” the recovery in consumer spending, they said.
And Tombs said that because the Bank had not released the raw data or methodology, “it’s hard to really critique it”.
The Bank of England has been contacted for comment.
Governor Andrew Bailey will be carefully weighing up the risks to the economy before the Bank of England’s November meeting
Growth to fall short of Bank’s prediction
Simon French, chief economist at Panmure Gordon, said the Bank had “been over-interpreting” the “sustainability” of the recovery.
He said Haldane’s analysis was always valuable, however. “It is always useful to have a counter view,” he said.
Yet he said Haldane’s comments should be looked at in tandem with the BoE’s relatively upbeat August economic forecasts. “Taken together, that’s a problem for the Bank,” he said.
The BoE predicted that the UK economy would grow by 18 per cent in the third quarter. It contracted 20 per cent in the second.
Tombs said the prediction “simply seems implausible now”. He said it would take “an extraordinary ten per cent jump in GDP month on month in September”.
However, economists cautioned that the August figures could be heavily revised, given the difficulties caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Ruth Gregory, senior UK economist at Capital Economics, said she thought the Bank would act as growth slowed. She said it is likely expand quantitative easing by £250bn by the end of next year.


cityam--2020-10-09--Rishi Sunak extends furlough scheme for businesses facing lockdown

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has extended the furlough scheme for six months for businesses across the UK required to close under local lockdowns , as further restrictions loom ahead for parts of England .
Sunak today said the government will pay two thirds of employees ’ salaries to businesses forced to shutter under fresh lockdown measures .
Firms whose premises are legally required to shut “ for some period over winter as part of local or national restrictions ” will receive grants of up to £2,100 per month to pay the wages of staff who can not work , the Treasury @ @ @ @ @ @ @ required to contribute to wages under the new scheme , but will have to cover National Insurance and pension contributions .
Cash grants for businesses required to close in local lockdowns will also increase to £3,000 per month .
The government will launch a three-month review of the scheme in January to assess whether the “ levels and criteria ” of support are appropriate .
Companies can only claim the wage grant while subjected to state restrictions , and workers will have to have been off for at least one week .
Announcing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Throughout the crisis the driving force of our economic policy has not changed .
I have always said that we will do whatever is necessary to protect jobs and livelihoods as the situation evolves .
“ The expansion of the Job Support Scheme will provide a safety net for businesses across the UK who are required to temporarily close their doors , giving them the right support at the right time.
” The announcement marks a sharp U-turn from current plans to scrap the furlough scheme on 31 October , following mounting criticism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chancellor announced a new job support scheme would replace the furlough scheme and provide support for staff working at least a third of their hours .
But senior figures in the hospitality industry warned the new scheme would not be enough to support jobs in businesses already on their knees after months of closure and the recent introduction of a 10pm curfew .
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham suggested he would take the government to court to stop new measures being introduced without “ proper compensation and a local furlough scheme for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and bars in row over late night levy as 10pm curfew sinks sales UK Hospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said : “ To save jobs and businesses , government support for hospitality must be at the same levels of the furlough scheme where there are forced closures , and two thirds of wages where curfews and other restrictions are seeing trade hit hard .
“ The inarguable fact is that all of the restrictions currently in place or under consideration , make it impossible for most venues to operate anywhere near profitably.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected across the North of England , with Nottingham earmarked to join cities such as Liverpool , Leeds and Manchester with new restrictions .
The plans , which could come into effect as soon as Monday , follow the decision by Scotland ’ s first minister Nicola Sturgeon to close all pubs and restaurants in Scotland for at least two weeks .
The government this week introduced a new “ traffic light system to assess the need for further restrictions in regions across England following a sharp spike in infections .
The system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Trace app to form risk profiles of areas around the country .
Read more : Coronavirus recovery stalls as UK economy grows just 2.1 per cent in August There are currently no areas in the UK that are considered “ low-risk ” by the new app .
It comes after the UK yesterday reported 17,540 new coronavirus cases , marking a 3,300 jump on Wednesday ’ s figure .
The Office for National Statistics today said the number of Covid cases in England has “ increased rapidly ” over the past few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ average of 17,200 new cases per day in private households between 25 September and 1 October .
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Rishi Sunak extends furlough scheme for businesses facing lockdown
Rishi Sunak announced the support measures today as England faces further local lockdowns
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has extended the furlough scheme for six months for businesses across the UK required to close under local lockdowns, as further restrictions loom ahead for parts of England.
Sunak today said the government will pay two thirds of employees’ salaries to businesses forced to shutter under fresh lockdown measures.
Firms whose premises are legally required to shut “for some period over winter as part of local or national restrictions” will receive grants of up to £2,100 per month to pay the wages of staff who cannot work, the Treasury announced today.
Businesses will not be required to contribute to wages under the new scheme, but will have to cover National Insurance and pension contributions.
Cash grants for businesses required to close in local lockdowns will also increase to £3,000 per month.
The government will launch a three-month review of the scheme in January to assess whether the “levels and criteria” of support are appropriate.
Companies can only claim the wage grant while subjected to state restrictions, and workers will have to have been off for at least one week.
Announcing the measures, Sunak said: “Throughout the crisis the driving force of our economic policy has not changed. I have always said that we will do whatever is necessary to protect jobs and livelihoods as the situation evolves.
“The expansion of the Job Support Scheme will provide a safety net for businesses across the UK who are required to temporarily close their doors, giving them the right support at the right time.”
The announcement marks a sharp U-turn from current plans to scrap the furlough scheme on 31 October, following mounting criticism from industry figures.
Earlier this month the chancellor announced a new job support scheme would replace the furlough scheme and provide support for staff working at least a third of their hours.
But senior figures in the hospitality industry warned the new scheme would not be enough to support jobs in businesses already on their knees after months of closure and the recent introduction of a 10pm curfew.
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham suggested he would take the government to court to stop new measures being introduced without “proper compensation and a local furlough scheme for staff”.
UK Hospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “To save jobs and businesses, government support for hospitality must be at the same levels of the furlough scheme where there are forced closures, and two thirds of wages where curfews and other restrictions are seeing trade hit hard.
“The inarguable fact is that all of the restrictions currently in place or under consideration, make it impossible for most venues to operate anywhere near profitably.”
Northern lockowns
It comes as further local lockdowns are expected across the North of England, with Nottingham earmarked to join cities such as Liverpool, Leeds and Manchester with new restrictions.
The plans, which could come into effect as soon as Monday, follow the decision by Scotland’s first minister Nicola Sturgeon to close all pubs and restaurants in Scotland for at least two weeks.
The government this week introduced a new “traffic light system to assess the need for further restrictions in regions across England following a sharp spike in infections.
The system will work alongside the new NHS Test and Trace app to form risk profiles of areas around the country.
There are currently no areas in the UK that are considered “low-risk” by the new app.
It comes after the UK yesterday reported 17,540 new coronavirus cases, marking a 3,300 jump on Wednesday’s figure.
The Office for National Statistics today said the number of Covid cases in England has “increased rapidly” over the past few weeks, after the country reported an average of 17,200 new cases per day in private households between 25 September and 1 October.
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cityam--2020-10-09--New London restrictions are 'highly likely', Sadiq Khan says

Sadiq Khan has said it is “ highly likely ” that London will introduce coronavirus restrictions soon as cases across the capital continue to rise .
“ We are at a very serious tipping point .
The virus is accelerating in every part of London ” , the Mayor of London said today , warning further restrictions were “ inevitable ” .
Read more : London coronavirus cases : How many infections are in your London borough ?
His warning comes as confirmed cases in the capital neared 60,000 and the rest of the country braces itself for a tightening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restaurants close .
Pubs , bars and restaurants across Greater Manchester , Merseyside and parts of West Yorkshire could be forced to close from next week amid the region ’ s soaring infection rate .
As of yesterday the latest coronavirus statistics show there are 58,271 confirmed cases in London .
Brent and Barnet are the worst affected areas with 2,649 and 2,753 cases respectively .
The capital has now been placed on the coronavirus “ watch list ” .
Khan ’ s warning comes ahead of a trailed “ tiered ” lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on London .
England is expected to be carved into three different lockdown tiers from next week .
Under the proposals , people living in the strictest tier will be expected to be ordered to limit all social contact outside of the household .
The second tier will ban household mixing in homes or gardens , as well as in hospitality settings , as is already the case in the North East and Merseyside .
And those in the first tier will be expected to follow the rule of six and maintain social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mayor Sadiq Khan says no “ accurate picture ” of Covid-19 resurgence in London Writing in City A.M. this week , Khan said that the virus is spreading across the capital but warned that there is no “ accurate picture ” due to government failings .
In a further attack on the government , the mayor wrote : “ The only way London ’ s businesses will be able to survive this crisis is if the Government takes the right measures to stop the spread of the virus now , and provides the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the economy and protect jobs .
”

New London restrictions are ‘highly likely’, Sadiq Khan says
(Photo by TOLGA AKMEN/AFP via Getty Images)
Sadiq Khan has said it is “highly likely” that London will introduce coronavirus restrictions soon as cases across the capital continue to rise.
“We are at a very serious tipping point. The virus is accelerating in every part of London”, the Mayor of London said today, warning further restrictions were “inevitable”.
His warning comes as confirmed cases in the capital neared 60,000 and the rest of the country braces itself for a tightening of restrictions which could see pubs and restaurants close.
Pubs, bars and restaurants across Greater Manchester, Merseyside and parts of West Yorkshire could be forced to close from next week amid the region’s soaring infection rate.
As of yesterday the latest coronavirus statistics show there are 58,271 confirmed cases in London. Brent and Barnet are the worst affected areas with 2,649 and 2,753 cases respectively.
The capital has now been placed on the coronavirus “watch list”.
Khan’s warning comes ahead of a trailed “tiered” lockdown system which could see further measures imposed on London.
England is expected to be carved into three different lockdown tiers from next week. Under the proposals, people living in the strictest tier will be expected to be ordered to limit all social contact outside of the household.
The second tier will ban household mixing in homes or gardens, as well as in hospitality settings, as is already the case in the North East and Merseyside.
And those in the first tier will be expected to follow the rule of six and maintain social distancing.
Writing in City A.M. this week, Khan said that the virus is spreading across the capital but warned that there is no “accurate picture” due to government failings.
In a further attack on the government, the mayor wrote: “The only way London’s businesses will be able to survive this crisis is if the Government takes the right measures to stop the spread of the virus now, and provides the full financial support needed to prop up the economy and protect jobs.”


cityam--2020-10-09--Tory mayoral candidate vows 'mental health covenant' for TfL staff

Tory mayoral candidate Shaun Bailey has pledged to offer more mental health support to Transport for London ( TfL ) staff if elected mayor as figures show increasing levels of psychological distress among the workforce .
Bailey told City A.M. that he would create a “ mental health covenant ” for TfL workers in a similar vein to existing programmes for the police and the armed forces .
Read more : TfL boss that oversaw Crossrail and Garden Bridge fiascos set for an honour Bailey ’ s team said the covenant amounted to “ a pledge to go above and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the wellbeing ” of London ’ s transport workers .
Figures released by London ’ s transport body showed last year there was a 29 per cent increase in the number of days “ taken off by TfL staff citing a mental health problem ” .
This could potentially be as a result of the 25 per cent increase in violent assaults on TfL staff between 2016 and 2019 .
Before the Open newsletter : Start your day with the City View podcast and key market data A recent survey from the National @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Workers ( RMT ) also showed 72 per cent of the UK ’ s frontline transport workers had experience violence while on the job .
“ If 72 per cent of frontline staff in a private company were attacked , the chairman would be forced to act , ” Bailey said .
“ But instead of protecting TfL staff , Sadiq Khan ignored them .
“ He ignored violence against them , he ignored the increase in mental health issues and he ignored bus drivers when they called for PPE .
“ As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsibilities seriously .
I ’ ll start with a new mental health covenant for TfL staff , requiring the Mayor to take action when the mental health of TfL staff is at risk.
” A spokesperson for Khan said the rise in days lost to mental health reflects a UK-wide trend .
“ The health and wellbeing of transport staff is a key priority for the mayor and TfL and we continue to work to reduce the stigma around mental health , ” they said .
“ TfL already has a wide range @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including a dedicated mental health team and mental health first aider training .
“ We are determined to do all we can to protect and support staff which is why body worn cameras started being rolled out across the network in August following a successful trial .
Figures show the cameras can reduce assaults by almost half ( 47 per cent ) and all assaults are fully investigated to bring the perpetrators to justice.
” Read more : Time running out for TfL to secure emergency government funding The announcement comes a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The day was created in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health and aims to create awareness about , and reduce stigma of , mental health issues .

Tory mayoral candidate vows ‘mental health covenant’ for TfL staff
A survey from the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) also shows that 72 per cent of the UK’s frontline transport workers have experience violence while on the job.
Tory mayoral candidate Shaun Bailey has pledged to offer more mental health support to Transport for London (TfL) staff if elected mayor as figures show increasing levels of psychological distress among the workforce.
Bailey told City A.M. that he would create a “mental health covenant” for TfL workers in a similar vein to existing programmes for the police and the armed forces.
Bailey’s team said the covenant amounted to “a pledge to go above and beyond to protect the rights and safeguard the wellbeing” of London’s transport workers.
Figures released by London’s transport body showed last year there was a 29 per cent increase in the number of days “taken off by TfL staff citing a mental health problem”.
This could potentially be as a result of the 25 per cent increase in violent assaults on TfL staff between 2016 and 2019.
Before the Open newsletter: Start your day with the City View podcast and key market data
A recent survey from the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) also showed 72 per cent of the UK’s frontline transport workers had experience violence while on the job.
“If 72 per cent of frontline staff in a private company were attacked, the chairman would be forced to act,” Bailey said.
“But instead of protecting TfL staff, Sadiq Khan ignored them.
“He ignored violence against them, he ignored the increase in mental health issues and he ignored bus drivers when they called for PPE.
“As mayor, I’ll take my responsibilities seriously. I’ll start with a new mental health covenant for TfL staff, requiring the Mayor to take action when the mental health of TfL staff is at risk.”
A spokesperson for Khan said the rise in days lost to mental health reflects a UK-wide trend.
“The health and wellbeing of transport staff is a key priority for the mayor and TfL and we continue to work to reduce the stigma around mental health,” they said.
“TfL already has a wide range of support in place for its staff, including a dedicated mental health team and mental health first aider training.
“We are determined to do all we can to protect and support staff which is why body worn cameras started being rolled out across the network in August following a successful trial. Figures show the cameras can reduce assaults by almost half (47 per cent) and all assaults are fully investigated to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
The announcement comes a day before World Mental Health Day tomorrow.
The day was created in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health and aims to create awareness about, and reduce stigma of, mental health issues.