The London Assembly stands as the core mechanism for scrutiny in the Greater London Authority, serving as a 25-member elected body entrusted with scrutinising the activities of the Mayor of London. Established in 2000, the Assembly holds the authority, with a two-thirds supermajority, to amend the Mayor's annual budget and reject draft statutory strategies proposed by the Mayor. Its sphere of influence extends beyond scrutiny, allowing for investigations into various issues vital to Londoners, such as transportation and environmental concerns. The Assembly further plays a role in publishing its findings, issuing recommendations, and proposing initiatives to the Mayor.
Comprising 25 members, Assembly Members (A.M.s) are elected through the additional member system of proportional representation. A majority is achieved with 13 seats, and elections coincide with those for the Mayor, occurring every four years. Geographical super-constituencies, totalling 14, each elect one Member, complemented by an additional 11 members elected from a party list, ensuring proportional representation based on the overall votes cast for each party across London. To secure any seats, a party must win at least 5% of the party list vote.
Despite discussions on potential electoral system changes, the assembly elections have consistently adhered to the additional member system. This system involves a combination of first-past-the-post elections for a set number of constituencies and a closed party list system for London-wide seats. The terms of A.M.s last four years, leading to elections every four years.
Cllr. Keith Prince A.M.
Assembly Member for Havering and Redbridge
Councillor Keith Prince A.M. is a dedicated and seasoned public servant who has been a strong advocate for the residents of Havering and Redbridge on the London Assembly since May 2016. Born and raised in Havering, Keith's commitment to the community is deeply rooted in his upbringing, and he later chose Redbridge as the place to raise his own family.
Keith's extensive experience in local government spans several decades, as he served as a councillor in both Havering from 1990 to 1995 and in Redbridge from 2003 to 2018. He also took the helm as the leader of Redbridge Council between May 2009 and June 2014.
In his role on the London Assembly, Keith has been a fierce campaigner against the Ultra Low Emission Zone (U.L.E.Z.). His focus has been on scrutinising the Mayor of London's policing and transport policies, advocating for critical infrastructure projects such as the construction of a new flyover at Gallows Corner, alongside Andrew Rosindell M.P.
A dedicated champion for the safety and well-being of Londoners, Keith has campaigned for policies aimed at making the city safer for motorcyclists and ensuring better protection for transport workers, particularly during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. His local initiatives include collaborating with charities to address issues like antisocial behaviour, knife crime, and homelessness in Havering and Redbridge.
Before his tenure on the Assembly, Keith brought his skills to the private sector as a marketing manager for LBC Radio. His dedication to public service continued as he served as a non-executive adviser to Stephen Greenhalgh, the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, during Boris Johnson's mayoralty.
In recognition of his expertise and commitment, Keith Prince was re-elected to the London Assembly in May 2021. Currently, for the term 2023-24, he holds the responsibilities of Chairman of the Transport Committee and is a valued member of both the Police and Crime Committee and the G.L.A. Oversight Committee. Through his various roles and initiatives, Keith continues to work tirelessly to address the pressing issues facing his constituents and contribute to the overall betterment of London.
