The City of London Corporation is a uniquely diverse organisation with three main aims – to support and promote the City as the world leader in international finance and business services; to provide high quality local services and policing for those working in, living in and visiting the Square Mile; and to provide valued services to London and the nation as a whole, including its role as one of the most significant arts sponsors in the UK and its support for the economic development of the surrounding boroughs. The City Corporation is older than Parliament and its experience and tradition underpin its modern role as the provider of key services. Elected Members, headed by the Lord Mayor, operate on a non-party political basis.