I am standing in the upcoming Coleman Street ward by-election.

Full statement

A lawyer by profession, I began my career at Cravath in New York and have spent much of my time advising technology startups on structure, finance and intellectual property. I served on the City’s Common Council for 12 years, representing the neighbouring ward of Aldersgate.

I have chosen to run because I believe the City faces several challenges that I can help address. The most important are the following:

Three Challenges Facing the City

Budget reform. The City’s record increase in the business rates precept has done little to close the deficit. Across-the-board cuts are now being planned — a blunt approach that has previously created years of corrective action. Spending reductions must be driven by clear priorities. That is harder work, but essential.

Efficient government. Ministers believe larger councils are more efficient. We must prove the City can govern itself effectively — or risk being merged into a borough.

Protecting our police. Government reform proposals pose an existential threat to the City of London Police. Our force’s specialist expertise in cybercrime and fraud underpins the City’s reputation as a worldclass business environment. This challenge demands far greater urgency and creativity.

A Track Record of Delivery
I have the experience needed to help address these challenges. As Deputy Chair of the City’s Finance Committee, I led reforms that strengthened financial governance: improving project oversight, streamlining procurement, and restructuring the City’s budgeting to enable longer-term planning. These reforms were delivering results and need to be protected and expanded. My contribution was recognised this February when I was appointed an external member of the City’s Police Authority Board.