City’s new Lord Mayor will be a much-needed Square Mile champion
As we move towards guarded optimism that we really might be over the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic, that cheery outlook is increasingly not being matched by economic data. Today two surveys suggest confidence is faltering, as supply chain issues and staffing shortages begin to be felt. Another look at pub takings suggest we’re not even rushing back to the pub again.
You cannot necessarily blame businesses for feeling as if the promised recovery is not what it might be. And the signals from central government don’t help much either. With each passing day another budget nasty makes itself known, as Boris Johnson’s government pursues a high-tax, high-spend agenda under the cover of ‘levelling up.’
And when you look at achievements at Cop-26 (minor), promised trade deals (as yet largely non-existent), and an energy crisis (answers to which there appear to be none), one can forgive business for being a little wary.
Global Britain’s image abroad isn’t helped either by a sleaze and second-jobs scandal that isn’t going away, either. Anybody in London waiting for central Government to cheerlead for the capital may also be better advised not to hold their breath.
Mercifully, the City and the capital has other champions. Today will see the new Lord Mayor host his first major Square Mile banquet at the Guildhall, hosting the Prime Minister amongst others at a gathering of the City’s great and good.
In his first column today, Vincent Keaveny sets out his agenda in the year-long role. The City’s greatest asset is its people, and Keaveny is determined to ensure that the Square Mile becomes even more of a meritocracy.
As Keaveny enjoys his evening, however, we must also pay a tribute to the City’s outgoing Lord Mayor, William Russell.
Through an extended term, he has continued to fight for the Square Mile, and advocate for it even when others predicted its imminent demise. The City’s recovery is in no small part thanks to his tireless work.
Read more: Editorial: Time to stare down the militant union jeopardising the night tube