Links:

The Corporation of London

The Museum of London

The Worshipful Company of Fishmongers (for full list of all Livery Companies)

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.

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 a number of 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".