The governance of Greater London is primarily overseen by the Greater London Authority (GLA), a strategic regional authority established in 2000.
The GLA consists of two main branches: * **The Mayor of London:** An elected executive who holds significant powers over transportation (Transport for London), policing, fire and emergency planning, and strategic housing and economic development. * **The London Assembly:** A 25-member elected body that scrutinizes the Mayor's policies, activities, and budget.
At the local level, Greater London is divided into 33 local authority districts: 32 London Boroughs (such as Camden, Westminster, and Hackney) and the City of London. The London Borough Councils are responsible for day-to-day services like waste collection, local planning, schools, and social services.
The historic **City of London** (often called the Square Mile) has a unique governance structure led by the City of London Corporation and the Lord Mayor of London, operating independently of the 32 boroughs.