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London Mayor Alastair King says it’s not ‘just a ceremonial role’ – but what does he do? | UK News

Umito November 10, 2024

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 09: Lord Mayor, Alastair King waves from his carriage on November 09, 2024 in London, England. The Lord Mayor's Show is the oldest, longest and least repeated civic procession in the world. This dates back to the early 13th century, when King John granted the City of London the right to appoint its own mayor. He required every newly elected mayor to come upriver to distant Westminster and swear fealty to the Crown, and mayors have been making this journey for over 800 years. Around them grew a noisy, colorful and joyful procession which, over the centuries, became known as the Lord Mayor's Show. (Photo by Ben Montgomery/Getty Images) — Mayor Alastair King waves from his carriage during today’s procession (Photo: Ben Montgomery/Getty Images)

Thousands of people gathered in the center London for the Lord Mayor’s annual show.

The spectacle dates from the 13th century and is the first official engagement of a new Lord Mayor of London.

The oldest civic procession in the world, the 2024 procession brought together 7,000 people, 250 horses and more than 50 decorated floats.

But what does the Lord Mayor of London actually do?

What is the Lord Mayor of London doing?

The Lord Mayor is the elected head of the City of London Corporation and his term of office lasts one year.

Within the City of London, the only person considered to have a higher status than the Lord Mayor is the King himself.

During their year in office, they host heads of state, heads of government and other foreign dignitaries.

They also work closely with the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, although their roles are separate.

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Guy Bell/Shutterstock (14887149f) Gog and Maygog pass the mansion with a cheer - The Lord Mayor's Show 2024 features the 696th Lord Mayor of London, Alderman Alastair King of Queenhithe ward. The show dates back to the early 13th century, when King John granted the City of London the right to appoint its own mayor. He insisted that every newly elected mayor must travel up the river to distant Westminster and swear fealty to the Crown. Mayors have been making this journey for over 800 years. The procession for the Lord Mayor's Show, City of London.., City of London, London, United Kingdom - November 09, 2024 — The Lord Mayor’s Show 2024 features the 696th Lord Mayor of London, Alderman Alastair King (Photo: Guy Bell/Shutterstock)

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He is also president of the environmental foundation Common Earth.

Before the procession, Mr King said: “The Lord Mayor’s Show is the soul of London – as unique as it is historic – and it will be a privilege to be at the heart of this wonderful event, which connects the traditions of London’s past. London. to the modern world.

“As I wave to the crowd from the state coach and soak up the carnival atmosphere of the show, it will certainly feel like a celebration of the vibrancy of the Square Mile and its many communities.”

“I chose “unleashed growth” as the theme for my year as mayor.

“I will focus on promoting business, encouraging businesses to adopt new technologies that give us a competitive advantage and working with the vibrant communities that make London such a vibrant city in which to do business.”

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