Local councillors and mayors who repeatedly break the rules or commit serious misconduct will face tougher sanctions under new plans published by the Government today (11).
The Government said the new rules are being put in place ‘to clean up local politics and restore public confidence’ and tackle bad behaviour from councillors within local authorities.
The new rules allow local councils to hand out suspensions of up to six months for serious misconduct and repeated rule breaches.
They could also have allowances withheld, ensuring taxpayers’ money is not wasted on councillors who are in breach of the code of conduct. All councillors receive a basic allowance to cover costs for meeting constituents or dealing with their inquiries. Allowances can be around £16,000 per councillor for the year.
This year alone, two separate councillors in England were convicted of serious offences and remained in post until receiving prison sentences because there were no powers to suspend them.
Secretary of State for Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Steve Reed, said bad behaviour amongst a small minority of councillors distracted from the incredible work happening in communities every day.
“We must clean up local politics by rooting out those who bring the system into disrepute. These reforms will give councils and mayoral authorities the power to do exactly that.”
The mandatory code of conduct will apply to all types and tiers of local authority in England, ensuring that everyone, everywhere is held to the same high standard.
Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness, Alison McGovern, said: ”These reforms will raise the bar and ensure swift, fair action where it’s needed most.
“With Town Hall austerity for the poorest places, and rising abuse, being a local councillor is harder than ever. But our country needs local leaders who will stand up for people. These changes are the first step on the road to recovery for local democracy.”
