LIVERY COMPANIES AND THE CITY OF
LONDON
The City of London has a unique and ancient system
of governance. The office of Sheriff dates from about 1030 AD and is
the oldest in the City. Election of Lord Mayors and Sheriffs is in
the hands of the Livery at two sittings of 'Common Hall'. The City
also has a unique value to the country, both in terms of economic
activity and in its contribution to government revenue from business
rates.
Election of the Lord Mayor 2004
The Lord Mayor, with the support of the Sheriffs, is extremely
busy with half a dozen or so functions on many days. He (or she)
undertakes two or three overseas trips in his year of office, on
behalf of the City and of government. He also undertakes a
diplomatic role in entertaining leaders of overseas countries as
well as hosting the Prime Minister and Chancellor at major
banquets.
A United Guilds' Service is held each year at St Paul's
Cathedral, to which all Liveries send representatives.
Together with the Livery Companies, the City contributes hugely
to charities as well as maintaining many open spaces around London,
the Barbican Centre and the City bridges.
Before being elected to the Livery it is necessary to take up the
Freedom of the City, which is arranged through the office of the
Beadle. Freemen and Liverymen are able to join the Guild of Freemen,
the Society of Young Freemen, and the City Livery Club.
Liverymen can learn more by attending the Corporation's City
Management course or by reading the booklets "The Livery Companies
of the City of London" or "The Freedom of the City of
London".
