The Scrutiny Programme Board is requested to give consideration to two Policy Briefing documents produced by the Centre for Public Scrutiny, in relation to matters contained within the Localism Bill. At its meeting held on 10 February 2011 (minute 53 refers), the Board had deferred consideration of the documents to a future meeting.

The Director of Law, HR and Asset Management presented two Policy Briefing documents, produced by the Centre for Public Scrutiny, in relation to matters contained within the Localism Bill. Consideration of the Briefing documents had been deferred to a future meeting by the Board at its meeting held on 10 February 2011 (minute 53 refers).

Members referred to and requested an update with regard to the decision of the Council held on 14 Feb 2011 in relation to Democratic Reform and Localism (minute 89 refers). The Council had agreed, inter alia –

7.  Therefore, in anticipation of the Localism Bill being given Royal Assent, Council instructs the Director of Law HR and Asset Management to immediately begin holding and facilitating discussions between the three party leaders to develop a new governance model for Wirral, within existing resources, to be ready to come into operation at the earliest opportunity within the 2011/12 municipal year once the relevant legislation is in place.

Members noted however, that the outcome of discussions in relation to the development of a new governance model would initially be a matter for the Cabinet to consider, prior to determination by the Council.

Resolved –

(1)  That the Policy Briefing Notes produced by the Centre for Public Scrutiny (CfPS) be noted.

(2)  That the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management be requested to liaise with the Chair and group spokespersons to provide a brief update upon the progress of discussions with the three party leaders to develop a new governance model for Wirral.

In accordance with minute 41 (5 January 2011) (attached), the Committee is requested to give consideration to two Policy Briefing documents produced by the Centre for Public Scrutiny, in relation to matters contained within the Localism Bill.

Further to minute 41 (5 January 2011), the Director of Law, HR and Asset Management presented two Policy Briefing documents produced by the Centre for Public Scrutiny, in relation to matters contained within the Localism Bill, which he proposed should be read in conjunction with his report on the implications for scrutiny of the Localism Bill (see minute 52 ante).

Resolved – That consideration of the briefing documents be deferred to a future meeting of the Committee.