Agenda item - Standards Update

Report of the Executive Lead Officer, Strategy Governance & Law

1)           That the Committee note the information provided in this Report on Member complaints and on standards-related matters.

44.1      The Committee considered a report of the Head of Law & Monitoring Officer that provided an update on Member related complaints.

44.2      Councillor Hugh-Jones asked what efforts were made to ensure diversity amongst Standards Panel members.

44.3      The Executive Lead Officer, Strategy, Governance & Law explained that there was no specific rule on diversity, but it was good practice and was incorporated whenever possible.

44.4      Councillor Hamilton noted that two standard panel dates had recently been cancelled and stated that this was not entirely fair to Members and staff.

44.5      The Senior Lawyer replied that the logistics for arranging standard panels were very complex and this could cause delay however, there was a responsibility to contain the exercise.

44.6      Helen Aston asked how many people had attended the recent standards training and asked if officers were satisfied that the number of those trained was sufficient.

44.7      The Executive Lead Officer, Strategy, Governance & Law explained that the sessions were low in terms of attendance and whilst they were not mandatory to attend, participation was encouraged through a number of forums.

44.8      The Chair asked if each of the Leaders could be contacted to raise the issue with their Groups.

44.9      Councillor Moonan noted that the sessions were held in the run up to the recent General Election that may explain low attendance figures. Councillor Moonan hoped the training could be held again as she was aware that a number of the Labour Group councillors wished to attend.

44.10   RESOLVED- That the Committee note the information provided in this Report on Member complaints and on standards-related matters.