London requires greater devolved powers to solve housing crisis

Green Party Assembly Member Benali Hamdache has called for London to receive devolved powers comparable to those held by Wales and Scotland to address the capital’s housing crisis.

Speaking at a Green Party annual conference event, Hamdache argued that City Hall’s fiscal capabilities are significantly behind major European cities such as Madrid and Berlin. He noted that while recent measures have allowed mayors to levy tourist taxes and retain portions of income tax, a “huge gulf” remains between current authorities and the needs of the capital.

Hamdache highlighted that London faces unique challenges, including the closure of primary schools due to high house prices. He suggested that increased devolution would allow the Mayor of London to raise more revenue for housebuilding schemes, citing the municipal tax and surcharge powers available to leaders in cities like New York as a potential model.