Brexit continues to dominate the political landscape and Tower Hamlets Council deserves praise for setting up its own commission to examine the potential economic and social impact that leaving the EU will have on the borough.

The commission has been taking evidence from businesses, third sector groups and public-sector officials across a number of areas. I personally contributed to a session on how social cohesion and policing will be affected. The findings will be published early next year.

I recently also spoke at a packed Spitalfields meeting about proposals to set up a local town council.

Myself and the majority of those in attendance were opposed to this plan, on the grounds that it is divisive, duplicative and unnecessary, not adding any value to existing arrangements.

I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a very merry Christmas, a happy New Year and all the very best for 2019.