47The annual State of London debate
(1)The Mayor shall once in every financial year hold and attend a meeting under this section (in this section referred to as a “State of London debate”) which shall be open to all members of the public.
(2)The form of, and procedure for, a State of London debate shall be such as the Mayor may determine after consultation with the Assembly, but must be such that there is an opportunity for members of the public to speak.
(3)The power to determine the form of, and procedure for, a State of London debate includes power to appoint a person to preside.
(4)Any person may be appointed to preside at a State of London debate, whether or not he has any connection with the Authority.
(5)A member of the public who attends or speaks at a State of London debate shall do so subject to and in accordance with the procedure for the State of London debate.
(6)A State of London debate shall be held on a date to be determined by the Mayor—
(a)during April, May or June in each successive period of twelve months beginning with 1st April 2001, and
(b)at least 7 days after the publication under section 46 above of the annual report relating to the financial year last ended.
(7)At least one month prior to the date on which the State of London debate is to be held, the Mayor—
(a)shall determine the place at which the meeting is to be held; and
(b)shall take such steps as will in his opinion give adequate notice of the date and place of the meeting to members of the public.