HC Deb 24 May 1978 vol 950 cc580-1W
Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list those metropolitan councils whose head is termed "Lord Mayor" and those where the title is "Mayor"; and if he will explain the criteria for such titles.

Mr. Guy Barnett

The following city councils have lord mayors: Birmingham; Bradford; Coventry; Leeds; Liverpool; Manchester; Newcastle-upon-Tyne; and Sheffield. All other metropolitan districts have mayors.

The style of "Lord Mayor" is an exceptional honour bestowed on cities by the Sovereign on the recommendation of the Home Secretary. The chairman of a borough council has the style "mayor". Any district council may petition for borough status.