Report reveals London life

21 July 2004

The strategic issues facing London as a world city are unveiled in a new government report.

It examines all aspects of living in London including transport, employment and housing issues.

London has a strong economic relationship with other parts of the country, from which all regions benefit, says the report. The capital has been successful in attracting the high skilled labour it needs to sustain its dynamic, modern economy.

Some of the best services in the UK can be found in London, including schools, hospitals and local authorities.

The report is not a statement of government policy but does suggest areas for further work. It says that the government should work to:

• Examine whether public services should be delivered in different ways in London
• Clarify the division of responsibilities for transport in London between government and the Mayor
• Ensure that London's social housing stock is used to secure the greatest possible welfare return
• Understand the characteristics of London's unemployed population
• Understand the factors continuing to attract people visiting, working and living in London

Sponsor Minister, and Minister for London, Keith Hill said:

"This very interesting report will help inform long-term policy-making to make London even more vibrant and attractive to its citizens.

"Our priority is to deliver high quality public services, improve people's quality of life and create sustainable communities where people want to live."

Extra info

• The report was published today on the Strategy Unit website