One City

Councillor Barrow Elected as Leader of the Council

In a speech to the Lord Mayor he accepted the challenge, set by his predecessor Sir Simon Milton, of making Westminster a world leader in city management. "Westminster is not simply another council. It aspires, rightly, to be the best of the best, to be a global leader in city management. It was this ambition that Simon Milton turned into reality", he said. His priorities for Westminster include raising the standard of streets and public spaces. "I want the rest of the world to be amazed at the quality of design, cleanliness and safety of our streets, certainly in 2012, and preferably by this time next year."

Setting a new standard of service for customers is also a key focus for Councillor Barrow. "I want Westminster’s work to be the standard by which others judge public service....Are we treating people well and serving them effectively? Is this how you would want to be treated?" he asked.

Councillor Barrow was elected Councillor for Hyde Park ward in 2002. He was then appointed Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Transport, in charge of the council's parking service, before being appointed as Cabinet Member for Finance and Deputy Leader in 2005.

A keen supporter of a number of charities, he is chairman of the National Autistic Society and has also assisted the Red Cross, the Macmillan Nurses and the Rambert Dance.