As your Member of Parliament, I have been listening to your concerns and aspirations, and it is clear that many of you believe in the benefits of Havering reclaiming its autonomy. The expansion of the Ultra-Low Emmissions Zone was just the latest in a series of policies imposed on us by 'City Hall' without our support or consent. It is clear that we must return to our historic roots in Essex.
We are also fleeced by the Mayor of London, who takes huge sums of money from places like Havering to fund the Greater London Authority. Can we have a debate about reform to local government in Greater London, and fairer funding for boroughs such as Havering—and hopefully a referendum, so that we can go back to being fully part of Essex?
Andrew Rosindell M.P., Business of the House, Thursday 22 February 2024
1. Protecting the Freedom Pass: A Non-Negotiable Priority
First and foremost, let me assure you that there is no risk to the Freedom Pass following any change. The Freedom Pass existed long before the creation of the Mayor and Greater London Authority (G.L.A.). It is not granted by City Hall, but through a borough agreement, for which we pay a substantial amount. I have consistently advocated for the preservation of the Freedom Pass, even speaking in Parliament for free travel for all pensioners across the U.K., especially so that pensioners can travel freely into Essex to visit their friends and family
The most obvious one for me, coming from the London borough of Havering, is that one cannot travel using the freedom pass from Havering into our neighbouring towns in Essex. Hon. Members will know, as I have spoken about the matter on many occasions, that people in my part of Greater London believe, rightly, that they are part of Essex, yet for all these years they have been denied the right to travel to towns in Essex, whereas they have been able to travel to other parts of London.
Andrew Rosindell M.P., Concessionary Bus Travel Bill [Lords], Monday 14 May 2007
2. Taking Control of Our Destiny
What we stand to gain by liberating ourselves from the influence of City Hall is the ability to make our own decisions on crucial matters such as planning, development, and the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (U.L.E.Z.). This move would also protect us from the imposition of the inner London woke agenda. Moreover, we could save millions of pounds currently allocated to the G.L.A. through our council tax, with little benefit in return.
3. Debunking U.L.E.Z. Myths
Contrary to misinformation, studies show that extending U.L.E.Z. to boroughs like Havering brings almost no benefit to air quality. Instead, it burdens those who rely on their cars for daily activities, placing an unfair tax on the most vulnerable members of our society. We must have the powers which allow us to resist these one-size fits all policies.
4. Overwhelming Support from the Community
I recently conducted an MP's Opinion Poll, receiving responses from over 400 residents in the Romford constituency. An impressive 94% of participants voted in favour of granting Havering independence from City Hall. This is a clear mandate from our community, signaling the desire for change and self-determination.
5. The Path Forward: A Local Referendum
I acknowledge that opinions may differ, and I respect diverse perspectives. Therefore, I propose a democratic solution—a local referendum. Let the people of Havering decide their future. Your voices matter, and I believe this is the fairest way to determine what is in the best interest of our borough.
I remain committed to representing your interests and ensuring that the future of Havering reflects the collective will of its residents.