How to resolve into confidential session for exclusion of public and press

Question

Does a resolution to go into confidential session have to state the relevant legislation and specify any reason for going into confidential session; or is it sufficient merely to resolve to go into confidential session before asking members of the public in attendance to leave?

If legislation and reason were not proposed and resolved, then would that amount to improperly going into confidential session and/or not have necessitated members of the public to leave?

Answer 1

The resolution should state the relevant legislation, often schedule 12A of the Local Govt Act 1972 and  the reason insofar as either that it is confidential or exempt items that are being discussed. If the council resolves to exclude press and public without any reason whatsoever being quoted it would be unlawful.

Comments

Or, Public Bodies (Admissions to Meetings) Act 1960