Issue - meetings

To provide the committee with an update regarding the review of the Council’s Standards Process.

The Chair inadvertently missed the next item on the agenda and therefore this agenda item was discussed next.

The Interim Monitoring Officer presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'B' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

The purpose of the report was to provide the committee with an update regarding the review of the Council’s Standards Process.

The Chair noted frustration that the standards review had been delayed and agreed it was important for the incoming Monitoring Officer to support and contribute to the review. 

Members discussed limitations around sanctions for Code of Conduct breaches and were advised that options remained restricted by primary legislation, although measures such as publicising breaches and, in serious cases, restricting access to council buildings or committees could be used. 

Members were assured that they would have opportunities to contribute ideas and provide input as part of the standards review process at the appropriate time.

The Chair confirmed an intention to progress the review as quickly as possible following the appointment of the new Monitoring Officer. 

Officers highlighted that member complaints had increased by almost 80%, placing significant demands on resources and contributing to delays in progressing the review. 

The Committee recognised the additional pressures on officers arising from elections, the Community Governance Review and wider responsibilities, and acknowledged their continued work in managing complaints. 

An Independent Person requested that the new Monitoring Officer be encouraged to give greater priority to progressing the standards review. 

RESOLVED that the Committee note the progress of the review and that the completion of the review will be postponed pending the commencement of employment of the Monitoring Officer.

Voting: Nem. Con.