Merton Council is set to bestow the Honorary Freedom of the Borough on Allan Barley and Stephen Hammond, recognising their significant contributions to the community.
The decision was scheduled to be made at the Merton Council meeting on 19 November 2025, where councillors were expected to vote on resolutions for each individual. The honour, conferred under Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, requires a two-thirds majority vote from the councillors present. According to the Agenda frontsheet and Public reports pack, this legal requirement ensures broad support for the decision.
Allan Barley is being recognised for his extensive service to the borough through his military involvement and his long-standing commitment to the Royal British Legion. The council documents highlight his substantial contribution he has made to the Borough through his military service, his work as a member of the Royal British Legion for over 60 years, Chair of the Mitcham Branch of the Royal British Legion for over 25 years, and as a Local Campaign Organiser for the Poppy Appeal for almost thirty years.
Stephen Hammond is being honoured for his service as a Councillor for Village Ward from 2002 to 2006 and as the Member of Parliament for Wimbledon from 2005 to 2024. During his time as MP, he held Ministerial positions in the Departments of Health and Transport and was a member of the Treasury Select Committee. The council documents state this honour recognises the substantial contribution he has made to the London Borough of Merton through serving as a Councillor for Village Ward from 2002-2006 and as Member of Parliament for Wimbledon from 2005-2024 including holding Ministerial positions in the Departments of Health and Transport, and membership of parliamentary committees, including the Treasury Select Committee.
