Agenda item

Report of Borough Solicitor (copy herewith)

The Monitoring Officer submitted a report, which sought approval on the content of the Draft Communications Strategy. It was explained that following the Standards Committee away day it had become apparent that Members wanted to raise the profile of the Ethical Agenda and were enthusiastic in wanting to achieve democratic engagement, both internally and externally.

The Chair noted that when looking at the context of the standards scenario in 2004, NBC was a Council rated as ‘poor’ but notable progress had been made having been short-listed for Council of the year 2009. He further reported that the Corporate Plan should be seen as a great support to the Council and should be taken to the wider public arena. He explained that Councillors, as elected leaders, should be respected and it would be disappointing if any elected Member did not support it.

The Monitoring Officer confirmed that once the draft report was agreed it could be developed further. It was explained that developments on the intranet and internet allowed people to access information relating to Standards and that during training sessions in the Induction Process emphasis would be placed on trying to embed the importance of ethical governance.

The Chair asked for feedback of the experiences of the selection process of elected Councillors. Councillor Flavell explained that during her selection process she had not been asked about standards or about her background. Councillor Hollis concurred that little thought had be given to the ‘Standards’ process and arguably it should be at the top political parties agendas.

Councillor Scott suggested that whilst there is a lot of talk about Councillors bringing the parties in to disrepute by not maintaining a high level of standards, it should be regarded as bringing the whole Council into disrepute. She explained that once she had become a Councillor she had undertaken Code of Conduct training which was not compulsory nor was it Standards specific.

The Monitoring Officer informed the Members about the uncertain consequences of the proposed changes the Coalition Government would make to Standards. The Committee would not have the ability to enforce compulsory training on Standards, but they would be able to heavily encourage and promote it. It was noted that the Standards for England would be terminated, but there was no clear guidance on what or whether it would be replaced.

The Chair advised that there had been a consistent pattern of distrust and little belief in Local Government. It would therefore be necessary to engage with the public by noting their opinions to ensure there was an awareness of people’s attitudes.

In response to a question raised, the Monitoring Officer explained that proportionality did not apply to the Standards Committee. However, it was noted that a general approach could be adopted whereby Independent Members could be invited to sit on the Committee and participate in discussions. However, it was confirmed that they would not have voting rights.

Councillor Hollis explained that it would be a positive step to involve independent members to ensure transparency and improved representation and to demonstrate their own commitment to working towards improving standards. In response, the Monitoring Officer stated he would discuss this with the group leaders and would update Members.

In relation to the Standards Committee Communications Strategy, the Chair stated that the answers would be in the results with emphasis placed on the need to work together in order to make progress. Enthusiasm and support would be required from Members and Officers,

RESOLVED: That Members be given the opportunity to consider the detail of the Strategy and respond to the Monitoring Officer on any relevant issues within 14 days. The Monitoring Officer would make any appropriate amendments to the Strategy and seek relevant approval from the Chair and Vice Chair with regards to the changes.