The Council was then invited to consider the recommendation from the Policy and Resources Committee meeting of 15 February 2023, in respect of the procedure to be adopted for this extraordinary meeting of the Council.

On a motion by Councillor Janette Williamson, seconded by Councillor Jean Robinson, it was –

Resolved – That, for the duration of the extraordinary meeting of 28 February 2023 (Budget Council):

(a)  the procedure attached as Appendix A to the report be followed in respect of the meeting; and

(b)  Council Standing Order 15.4 (timing of speeches) be suspended together with such other standing orders as may conflict with the Budget Council procedure or the Mayor’s administration of the meeting, in such a manner as the Mayor in his or her absolute discretion dictates, to ensure the objective of Council setting a lawful budget and council tax requirement prevails.

The Director of Law and Governance introduced a report on the assurance process in formulating the draft Council Budget with a recommendation to Council on a process for adoption at the Budget decision making meeting.

Resolved – That it be recommended to Council, that for the duration of the extraordinary meeting of 27th February 2023 (Budget Council):

(a) the procedure attached as Appendix A be followed in respect of the meeting; and

(b) Council Standing Order 15.4 (timing of speeches) be suspended together with such other standing orders as may conflict with the Budget Council procedure or the Mayor’s administration of the meeting, in such a manner as the Mayor in his or her absolute discretion dictates, to ensure the objective of Council setting a lawful budget and council tax requirement prevails.