Petitions
To consider a petition received from Mr Alex Balkan asking the Council to:
1. Establish a time-limited partnership with Visit Staines BID, residents, businesses and community organisations,
2. Approach Sacha Baron Cohen, his representative and the relevant rights holders at an early stage, inviting him to help shape and potentially fund the initiative,
3. Explore a temporary licensed attraction, event or photo opportunity during the new film’s promotional period,
4. Assess public support and develop a permanent statue, sculpture or other landmark only if external funding is secured for its design, installation and maintenance,
5. Include a secure donation facility supporting affordable sport, arts, leisure and community activities for children and young people in Staines; and
6. Ensure the initiative meets the Council’s legal, financial, planning, safety and ethical requirements, while retaining suitable creative freedom for Ali G’s irreverent humour and satire.
Decision:
The Committee resolved not to take the action requested for reasons put forward in the debate.