A City of London Corporation Member with more than 20 years’ experience has been elected to a historic ceremonial role in the Square Mile’s governing body.
Simon Duckworth, who has represented Bishopsgate Ward since 2000, was elected as Chief Commoner by the Court of Common Council, the authority’s principal decision-making body, and will serve for one year in the role.
The Chief Commoner – a position first created in 1444 –acts as an ambassador at ceremonial occasions, works to uphold the rights and privileges of City Corporation elected Members and is responsible for the organisation’s hospitality.
He replaces Brian Mooney, whose period of office was extended to two years to ensure continuity during the coronavirus pandemic.
City of London Corporation Chief Commoner Simon Duckworth said:
“It’s a privilege to have been elected to this role at a time when the City re-energises itself after the impact of the COVID pandemic and when the country looks forward to celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
“Recent local elections in the Square Mile mean the Court of Common Council will include 38 newly elected members, who will spend the next three years developing and overseeing the City Corporation’s broad strategy aimed at supporting and enhancing the lives and experience of those that live, visit and work in the City.
“I look forward to working with colleagues old and new to deliver an outcome that will benefit both the City and all Londoners”
Mr Duckworth is an AIM company chairman who has worked in the City for over 20 years, predominantly in the areas of investment trusts, fund management, security and IT.
He has served on a number of City Corporation committees, primarily involved with policy and finance, and is a former chairman of the City’s Police Authority Board, overseeing its national responsibility as the lead force for economic crime.
A senior Army Reservist, he stepped down from his role as Deputy Chairman of the Policy & Resources Committee in May 2020 to undertake a one-year voluntary mobilisation helping to plan and oversee the role played by the Armed Forces in supporting the Government’s pandemic response.
The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. Find out more at www.cityoflondon.gov.uk