Agenda item - Support for Political Groups

Proposed by Councillor Earthey on behalf of the Brighton & Hove Independents Group.

87.1    The Notice of Motion as listed in the agenda was proposed by Councillor Earthey on behalf of the Brighton & Hove Independents Group and formally seconded by Councillor Fishleigh.

87.2    The deputy mayor noted that there were three amendments in relation to this motion as set out in the addendum papers.

87.3    Councillor Allen moved the first amendment on behalf of the Labour Group which was formally seconded by Councillor Guilmant.

87.4    The deputy mayor congratulated Councillor Guilmant on their maiden speech on behalf of the council.

87.5    Councillor McNair moved the second amendment on behalf of the Conservative Group which was formally seconded by Councillor Meadows.

87.6    Councillor Davis moved the third amendment on behalf of the Green Group which was formally seconded by Councillor Hill.

87.7    Councillor Earthey confirmed that they would accept the Labour Group amendment.

87.8    The deputy mayor then put the Conservative Group amendment to the vote which was lost.

87.9    The deputy mayor then put the Green Group amendment to the vote which was lost.

87.10  The deputy mayor then put the following motion to the vote:

           This Council:

1.   Notes its current financial difficulties and strategic budgetary management the Administration have embarked on since May 2023.

2.   Notes that the cost of support for the three largest political groups from April 1st 2024 will be £194,900, spread evenly across the three Groups.

3.   Notes that the Local Government and Housing Act requires the largest political groups to be offered equal support if the membership of the group consists of at least 10% of the membership of the authority, in Brighton and Hove’s case 6 Councillors in a group.

4.   Notes that Councillors may require training and support from Democratic Services on internal protocol and procedures.

5.   Notes that political groups can explore alternative approaches to maintain the level of organisational support currently undertaken.

6.   Notes that any changes which may have an impact on staffing are required to follow the Council’s policies, including the Council’s Organisation Change Management Framework.

Therefore, Council resolves to:

1.   Request officers to consider including within the budget proposals the £194,900 savings that could be achieved through the cessation of BHCC financial support to political groups from April 1 2024.

2.   Express its thanks and gratitude to staff past and present who have aided in commission of civic duties within our city.

87.11  The deputy mayor confirmed that the motion had been carried.