What constitues a motion

Question

The rules for passing motions are clear, from their entry onto the Agenda to the vote, but what happens when an item appears on the Parish Council Agenda which has been the result purely of the Clerk's initiative or instigation.

Can these be followed through and voted upon after discussion. Can a P Clerk take part in these discussions. Does the item need to adopted by a Councillor and moved at a later meeting or can it be decided upon on the night - or what please.

Thanks

Answer 1

In general, an item of business should be so worded on the agenda sp as to make it clear what decision the council may take. For example an item worded " to consider removing or replacing the park bench" makes it clear what the council may consider doing in relation to a damaged park bench. Simply including an item "park bench" soes not. Thereafter when the matter is discussed at council a motion needs to be moved, seconded and voted upon in the usual way irrespective of the precise agenda wording.

Protocol varies, but typically the Clerk would agenda items he considered necessary. If councillors see no merit in any such item, they can vote to take no action upon it. The clerk (unless he also actually is) is not a member and should not debate a matter. His/her role here would be to advise and clarify.