To consider the report of the Head of Democratic Services.
Minutes:
Questions by Members considered at Council
The Committee noted the report regarding Questions by Members considered at Council and the length of Council meetings. The Head of Democratic Services highlighted the Members frustration with the length of meetings and their perception of not getting "proper" answers to questions.
The following comments were made:
· The Newport County Council system for Members asking “Formal Questions at Any Other Time" where the questions and answers are recorded on the website, was considered as being of use and was also transparent
· Cabinet Member had a responsibility to actually answer the questions asked
· Cabinet Members were not always in Council meetings when Members questions to Council are considered and so are not available to answer supplementary questions
· The ability to ask questions in public at Council meetings was an important part of the democratic process
· Retaining the questions in Council was also about Members being able to hold Cabinet Members to account on specific ward issues.
· The time taken for Members questions was not considered as the main issue and that the time taken should be monitored at the next meeting.
It was confirmed that the current Constitution allowed a Member to ask a maximum of two questions to any Council meeting. The Committee also questioned the number of meetings, which dealt with issues other than the budget. The Head of Democratic Services advised that the number of Council meetings was being reviewed for 2020 to reduce the gaps between meetings. It was considered that the timing and format of meetings should be reviewed.
It was suggested that a Working Group should look at the meetings and how they are managed.
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL |
Reason for Recommendation: |
That in addition to Members being able to ask questions to Council [as permitted under the Constitution] the Newport County Council system of “Formal Questions at Any Other Time" be trialled for a period of 12 months and that the trial be reviewed, with a report being made to Council. |
Ongoing review of the Council.
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RESOLVED THAT |
Reason for Recommendation: |
A Working Group reviews Council meetings and how they are managed. |
Ongoing review of the Council.
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Speaking to Council meetings
The Committee considered the report regarding Political Groups identifying speakers on specific issues to facilitate discussion at Council meetings. The Committee considered that this would improve Council meetings and that Group Leaders should be asked to discuss this. The Committee also indicated that such a process could support the Chair of Council.
Concern was raised about the process for dealing with amendments to recommendations at Council meetings. The Head of Democratic Services advised that Section 4 of the Constitution was currently being reviewed to address this.
It was noted that the broader issues around Council meetings and the suggestion of a presiding officer would be added to the Committee’s Work Programme.
RESOLVED THAT |
Reason for Recommendation: |
a Group leaders meeting be held, to discuss the proposal of the having nominated speakers to items on Council agendas, before the next Council meeting. |
Ongoing review of the Council.
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Supporting documents: