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Democratic Services |
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Town Hall | |
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dem.services @torbay.gov.uk |
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This page gives you information about the Mayor’s, councillors’ and co-opted members’ (members) expected behaviour, details of members’ interests, the role of the Standards Committee and how to complain about a member.
Behaviour and Code of Conduct
When the members are first elected and before they can carry out their duties, they have to agree to follow a code of conduct. The Code of Conduct ensures high standards and sets out the rules for how they should carry out their duties. It also covers areas of individual behaviour and makes sure members do not abuse their position or the Council’s resources.
Declaring Interests
Part of the Code requires members to declare any interests, gifts or hospitality which they receive that could influence any decisions they make. They are required to declare interests at meetings and also complete a register. The register for the Mayor and councillors is updated twice a year and is available to view below.
Role of the Standards Committee
The Council has a Standards Committee which promotes the high standards of conduct expected from members. The Committee includes 5 independent members and 4 Torbay councillors and 3 Brixham Town councillors. Its role covers:
- helping members to follow high standards of conduct and assists them in conforming to the Code of Conduct;
- advising the Council on any changes to the Code of Conduct;
- providing advice and training on the Code of Conduct;
- reviewing the Council’s protocols;
- considering reports on any Ombudsman investigations; and
- monitoring training given to members.
The Standards Committee deals with local assessment, investigation and determination of complaints of any breaches of the Code of Conduct or the Council’s protocols.
How to Complain
With effect from 8 May 2008, Torbay Council is responsible for dealing with complaints that the Mayor, a councillor or a co-opted member of Torbay Council or Brixham Town Council has broken their Council's Code of Conduct.
This role was previously carried out by the Standards Board for England (a national body) who now has a strategic role in monitoring and providing guidance and advice on the new arrangements.
Anyone wishing to make a complaint must do so in writing to the Independent Chairman of the Standards Committee, c/o Democratic Services, Torbay Council, Town Hall, Castle Circus, Torquay, TQ1 3DR. The form has been prepared to assist people in making a complaint and provides details of the information required to make a complaint.
The Council has not yet agreed the criteria or procedures for assessing complaints against members but this will be published as soon as it has been approved. The complaints will be dealt with having regard to the guidance by the Standards Board for England ‘Local Assessment of Complaints.’
In the meantime you have any queries on the proposed new arrangements please contact Democratic Services.
Co-opted members