Councillors' conduct

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• Code of Conduct - Summary
• Register of Interests
  • Declaration of Interests
• Standards Committee

Councillors must at all times observe the Council's Members' Code of Conduct to ensure high standards in the way they undertake their duties.

Following elections Members are asked to sign the declaration of acceptance of office including an undertaking to be guided by the Code of Conduct.  This duty to observe the Code primarily applies to situations where Members are undertaking official duties or acting as a representative of the Council.

A full copy of the Code of Conduct is available.

Code of Conduct - Summary

Councillors should:

• not do anything which brings the Council or their office into disrepute;

• not misuse their official position to their own advantage or to the advantage or disadvantage of others;

• promote equality by not discriminating against others;

• treat others with respect;

• respect confidential information;

• listen to the advice of Officers where the matter relates to possible illegal decisions or spending;

• inform the Standards Board for England if they believe another Member has broken the Code;

• not seek to compromise the impartiality of any person who works for the Council; and

• not misuse Council resources or authorise their misuse, in particular for unauthorised party political purposes.

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Register of Interests

Members are also required to register a range of financial and personal interests, details of which are contained in the Code of Conduct.    These interests will include:

• employment and business activities;
• property and share ownership; and
• membership of other organisations.

The Register of Members' Interests is available for public inspection.

Declaration of Interests

Alongside the Register, Members are also required to disclose any financial or personal interest they may have in any matter being considered at a Council meeting.  This may prevent a Member from speaking on the issue concerned or require them to leave the meeting whilst it is being considered.

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Standards Committee

The Council's Standards Committee provides training and advice on compliance with the Code and Officers will be prepared to offer advice when required.  However, ultimate responsibility will rest with the individual Member.