Big businees small council, how to avoid being unaccountable.

Question

On many a council throughout this must be similar, no doubt, that some councillors are substantial stakeholders with significant assets in the local community. My question although more than obvious is what protection can Cllr Joe average have in standing against the policy's which are advocated with the backing of the Clerk.

Answer 1

Every councillor has equal status, regardless of who they are. Decisions are made through discussion, negotiation and the will of the majority. The backing of the Clerk is of no consequence whatsoever, as they are not a part of the decision-making process.

Answer 2

As Dave says, one Councillor equals one vote and their assets would have to be declared on their register of interests.  If their assets come up in a discussion, they would have to declare a pecuniary interest and not take part.  The Clerk is not the determiner of action but takes their instruction from the council based on a majority decision.

Comments

Many thanks, will check register of interest.