Mid Sussex District Council report into Member / Officer Relations

12.00.00am GMT Mon 5th Feb 2007

The Liberal Democrat Group on Mid Sussex District Council welcomes the independent report into the conduct of officers and councillors.

Cllr Graham Knight, leader of the Liberal Democrat Group said:

"There have clearly been a number of instances over a period of time where certain councillors seem to have acted in ways which merited this wide investigation and a wider general review of the conduct of councillors.

"I will not comment at this time on the specific matters examined in the report which are the subject of a referral to the Standards Board for England. These are matters which should be further investigated by them.

"However, it is appropriate to comment on the more general points made on member conduct:

"The council has in place a code of conduct for councillors which it is vitally important that all members adhere to so as to ensure that the council operates in the best interests of the whole community of Mid Sussex and in such a way that everyone is, and can see that they are, treated fairly. There could be legal and financial consequences if it does not.

"Of course we all feel passionately about various matters from time to time but that is why these rules are there to ensure that the council's processes are above reproach and that the Council as an institution is impartial and respected.

"There can be no excuse for abuse of position or influence however well intentioned. The ends do not justify the means. Over zealous arguing for sectional or vested interests is disgraceful. Bullying and intimidation of officers is totally unacceptable and casts a shadow over the Council.

"Later this month the report will be debated by the Council and it is certainly necessary for changes to be made in the way in which the Council operates in order to remedy matters.

"Moving forward, Liberal Democrats will also be pressing for changes in the way in which councillors are involved in decision making. Changes are needed in the way in which the cabinet structure operates at Mid Sussex. We believe that the council needs to re-engage all councillors in policy making, allowing democratic participation.

"The Council also needs a forward looking strategy that raises the sights and ambitions for service to the people of Mid Sussex. Liberal Democrats will be setting out our vision for the future in our manifesto for this May's elections.