Issue - meetings

Councillor Bradbury proposed the item as Chairman of the Standards Committee noting an increase in the work of the Committee over the past year. He noted that the Committee has considered Government proposals to improve standards and is awaiting further Government guidance, to be considered at the next meeting.

A Member expressed concern over the powers to hold Members to account when they are found to have made inappropriate comments on social media, and she cited a specific example.  This concern was echoed by several Members who felt that there are insufficient penalties to deter bad conduct. It was confirmed that the Standards Committee has provided a response to the Government, that in common with other councils, Mid Sussex District Council believes there should be a broader range of sanctions for those who fail to uphold the highest possible standards.

Councillor Webster seconded the item, reiterating the Council’s response to Government and acknowledging the issues around comments on social media which often hamper constructive and respectful debate between a wide variety of groups.  

The Chairman took Members to a vote on the recommendation which was agreed with 42 in favour and none against.

RESOLVED

Council noted the report.