2 March 2007, 07/78
Setting standards
West Lancashire District Council's Standards Committee is
working hard to ensure consistently high ethical standards in local
government.
The Committee has recently been looking at new ideas to make sure
that 2007 continues to develop best practice at district and parish
council level and the Committee group met on Tuesday 27 February to
consider and provide comment on the Government's revised Code of
Conduct for Councillors.
John Cailes, Independent Chairman of the Standards Committee, said:
"The Government wants district and parish councils to adopt the new
code of conduct from May 2007 and we look forward to working with
Councillors to assist them in understanding the new code and
complying fully with its requirements. A seminar/workshop will be
held in April to train all members on the new obligations and we
are anticipating an excellent turnout."
Cllr Geoff M. Roberts, Leader of the Council, said: "The Standards
Committee meets throughout the year to help encourage high ethical
standards and provides excellent input. The Committee has four
councillors, two parish representatives and five independent
members to whom I feel we must give particular thanks for their
contribution."
"The Committee already has a proactive work programme to strengthen
and encourage practical initiatives, which includes visits to
district and parish council meetings helping to raise the
Committee's profile. It is hoped that this, coupled with a new Code
of Conduct, will all help to ensure that local government standards
in West Lancashire are second to none."
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