The Head of Legal and Member Services presented the report of the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management  seeking approval to a local protocol on local assessment and investigation of allegations of misconduct by members. The aim of the local protocol was to improve the manner in which such allegations and complaints are handled and processed.

Members of the Committee expressed concern that delays in dealing with standards complaints were unacceptable for all the parties concerned.  Members were of the view that the timescales within the protocol were not sufficiently clear and there was a need for ‘non-complex’ complaints to be dealt with within 6 months of receipt of the complaint.

Members further questioned, notwithstanding any amendments required, whether the protocol should be deferred whilst clarity on the implications of the Localism Bill is provided.

Members also suggested that officers should also explore possible collaborative working arrangements concerning standards matters with neighbouring Councils. 

Resolved -  That: this matter be deferred for a further report  to a future meeting of the Committee in order that amendments to the protocol can be made to address (i) the need for greater clarity on timescales, (ii) the implications of the Localism Bill and (iii) if possible, any collaborative working arrangements with neighbouring Councils.

Report to follow.

The Director of Law, HR and Asset Management, submitted a report seeking approval to a local protocol on local assessment and investigation of allegations of misconduct by members. The aim of the local protocol was to improve the manner in which such allegations and complaints are handled and processed.

Resolved -  That: this matter be deferred until the next meeting of this committee to allow members to consider the detail of the new Protocol.