This morning I was delighted to join the Lord Mayor, Lord Mount Evans, on his visit to the Billingsgate Market. Whilst there he gave the annual 'rent of one salmon' to Tower Hamlets.
The symbolic rent of one salmon for the 30 acre Billingsate Fish Market which is run by the City of London, was presented to the Speaker of Tower Hamlets who has replaced the role of Civic Mayor.
The Speaker is responsible for the ceremonial duties of the council. A new Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected every year from among the serving councillors in the borough.
The Speaker also represents the Queen as First Citizen of the Borough, hosting events and welcoming visitors such as other Royals and the captains of all ships visiting the local docks, and now is the recipient of the annual salmon.
Although nominal rents or 'peppercorn rents' date back centuries this agreement is relatively modern. The deal of the nominal 'salmon' was agreed in 1982 when the market moved to Tower Hamlets from its former home in the city.
The visit was a great opportunity to see the market in operation, which is open Tuesday to Saturday 4:00am - 8:00am.