Are there NALC procedural guidlines on internet access.

Question

The internet and in particular Social Media are comonly used to disperse personal oppinions, does NALC have governing procedural rules .

Answer 1

I think you need to be more specific here.  NALC used to advocate it: See https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/172495/response/429528/attach/2/Appx%202%20social%20networking%20connected%20councillors%20guide.pdf

But are you talking about access for members, Clerks or Staff?  Or all three?  And where are you suggesting the wi fi connectivity should be?  

Comments

Thanks for the reply, my question was a slight off subject and was in relation to previous post on forums and the administration of. The question is are there NALC guidelines on internet protocol regarding in particular Social Media for Councillors.

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NALC do have a media policy but you will need a NALC membership to log in to the members area of their website to download it. In 2014 they advocated that members sought permission from the clerk to talk to the press. Eric Pickles, the then DCLG sec of state suggested that councils should cancel their NALC subscription after hearing about that!

Answer 2

As far as I am aware, there are no specific regulations in this regard. In using social media, a member of a council should make it clear that the views they express are personal and not those of the council. Although not specifically applicable to personal life, it is helpful to bear in mind the Nolan Principles and the Code of Conduct, which cover issues such as the need to treat others with respect and not conduct yourself in a manner that could reasonably be regarded as bringing your office or authority into disrepute.

Comments

Thank you for your reply, those claiming ignorance is really no defence here either, although this media form is instantanious.