Question

Hi can a councillor who is also a resident speak in the public forum?

Answer 1

My personal opinion is Yes.  Its certainly it's been a feature of meetings locally over the years.  The caveat that i have always insisted on is that it does not lead to decision been taken at the same meeting.  My rationale been that if a question/request is asked in that format there is insufficient opportunity to prepare meeting papers and robustly discuss matter.   Sometimes these contributions locally have been very useful bringing attention to matter that has arisen after the agenda has been published.    

Answer 2

Yes - who says they can't and why?

Answer 3

Yes, Standing Orders are suspended and so anyone is free to speak. However, I would expect the Councillor to be cautious of what might be said (without censoring) in order not to prejudice anything on the agenda.