E50: How Might We Improve Democracy in London w/Antonia Jennings

Antonia is Chief Executive Officer at the Centre for London. She joined in September 2023, from the Centre for Local Economic Strategies. Prior to joining the team, Antonia worked in numerous charities, think tanks and campaigning organisations promoting new economic thinking. She has expertise across progressive local economic development, deepening democracy and sustainable economics. Antonia holds a Master’s degree with distinction in Politics and Communications, and a BA (Hons) in Politics, Philosophy and Economics. She is Chair of the board of Rethinking Economics.

Our conversation delves into the state of democracy in London, highlighting the need for improvement and the central issues that contribute to its shortcomings. The discussion also touches on the potential for change and the vision for a more inclusive and empowered London. It touches on the barriers to accessing arts and culture for marginalised communities and the potential for devolution and better use of public assets to support the cultural economy.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Reflection on Centre for London Event

02:32 Approach to Interviewing Political Leaders and Issue of Partisanship

09:27 State of Democracy in London and Challenges

12:24 Vision for Devolution and Upgraded Governance in London

29:40 Countering the Anti-London Bias: Communicating Contributions and Needs

33:11 Improving Living Standards Across the UK

34:24 The Impact of Austerity Measures

37:35 The Role of Arts and Culture in London's Success

39:14 Supporting the Creative Industries

40:57 Addressing Barriers to Accessing Arts and Culture

44:42 Devolution and Public Assets for the Cultural Economy

50:41 A Personal Anecdote: Meeting Brian Eno