Make the most of education grant

East End Life, November 21

Last Friday a vigil was held to mark the tragic death of two cyclists within the space of three weeks at the Transport for London-managed Bow roundabout.

Cycling has grown in popularity immensely in recent years, and it’s great to see so many people using their bikes to get around the borough, and keeping fit in the process.

But we cannot ignore the safety issues that still exist. Much is being done to encourage people in London to cycle, but not enough has been done to make the roads safe enough for cyclists.

We are continuing to run courses to promote road safety locally, but we need the mayor of London to heed the calls from across the political spectrum and take action now.

The budget is taking up a great deal of my time at present as we seek to protect key services and leave more money in people’s pockets in the face of swingeing government cuts.

So earlier in the summer I asked council officers to prepare a budget with no increase in council tax for 2012/13. If approved, that means a council tax freeze for the third year in a row.

For me, supporting local residents and businesses is at the core of my duty as your mayor. That is why I am so pleased we are about to introduce a new scheme to replace the Education Maintenance Allowance cut by the government.

If your child is in year 12 and you think they might be eligible, make sure you fill in the forms that will be landing on your doormats over the coming weeks.

Our bid to be awarded city status – to be the third city in London – was boosted significantly last week by a strong show of support by people from all sections of our vibrant and diverse community.

The event was held at the House of Commons courtesy of local MP Jim Fitzpatrick and Canary Wharf Group. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for the campaign when the Queen makes a decision early in 2012. You can show your support at http://www.cityoftowerhamlets.org.uk/.

Mayor Lutfur Rahman