News Desk

The Mayor of London has decided to remain at the helm of Transport for London reversing a decision to delegate control to newly appointed Tim Parker. In a statement issued by the Mayors office the move was justified because "his personal involvement is crucial to being an effective Mayor, and to ensure appropriate democratic accountability to the people of London." 

The London Daily News speaking to the Mayor's office has confirmed Parker will no longer have any involvement with TfL and his overall commitment to any activities at City Hall will be negligible. The is the third person appointed by the Mayor who has either resigned or been sacked in the last few months, and now according to sources at City Hall an atmosphere is one of "uncertainty" as to who will want to work with the Mayors office. 

The Mayor emphasised: “London has not lost the services of Tim Parker. He has completed the first stages of the GLA's restructuring and we will continue to benefit from his advice. I'm also personally grateful to him for his continuing support and friendship.”

Mr Parker will remain on the board and advise the Mayor on the reform and improvement of London transport.

The Mayor said: “Transport for London is responsible for a huge range of transport policies that impinge directly on the lives of Londoners and I was delighted when Tim Parker agreed to take charge of the Board on my behalf. Over the last few weeks, however, it has become increasingly apparent to both of us that the nature of the decisions that need to be take are highly political and there is no substitute for me, as the directly elected Mayor, being in charge. There are limits, therefore, to what can be delegated.”

Tim Parker said: “I look forward to advising Boris on an ongoing basis on transport. I have concluded, however, that it would not be appropriate for an unelected official to chair a body which is responsible for most of the money and a large part of the brief of an elected Mayor. I also agree with the Mayor that my position as adviser does not justify my full time and exclusive commitment to the Greater London Authority, or the title of First Deputy Mayor. We have therefore decided to adjust the management structure and abolish that position.”

photo credit: City Hall press office