member wants the Council to fund publication of his book

Question

One of the members is a published historian and has done extensive research on a matter of local interest. The Commemorations Working Party have recommended that the Council funds up to £10,000 for this high-level academic tome to be published. A copy will sell for around £50 and will be of specific interest to perhaps 400 individuals, some of whom no longer live in the town.

Is this appropriate use of public money?

Answer 1

This is not appropriate use of public money, you would need to ask what power they are using to spend the money under? can only think of S.137 and the benefit to the community should be commensurate or GPC (if you have it) but the Council could be risking their reputation if they act without local support.  Also surely the member would need to declare an interest and it doesn't look good supporting his project.

Answer 2

Seriously!!!!!!!!!! I'm sorry but that is ridiculous.  The councillor needs to find a publisher to take on the book or publish it with his own money and keep the £10000 profit that this book is expected to make.

There is no legal power, not even GPC that would cover this one and I would imagine the local taxpayer would not be impressed with the council even considering this project.
Sorry to be blunt but the Clerk needs to strongly advise the councillors against this glory project.

Comments

Agree, even when you think nothing will surprise you regarding Parish Councils something like this crops up