03.04.20
Local authorities given new powers for virtual public meetings
Local authorities across England have been given new powers to enable virtual public meetings using video or telephone conferencing technology.
From tomorrow (Apr 4) the new powers will come into play and local councils will be able to hold virtual public meetings thanks to legal requirements from Government being temporarily suspended.
It comes in a bid to maintain strong local democracy during this period, enabling councils to make decisions during this time without compromising on transparency.
These new measures follow Government advice to stay home, preventing the spread of the coronavirus and protecting the NHS from further strain.
Local Government Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said:
“Local authorities are the backbone of our democracy and they are playing a vital role in the national effort to keep people safe. This change will support them to do that while maintaining the transparency we expect in local decision making.
“Councillors and staff are already doing the right thing by following our advice to stay home, protect the NHS and save lives. This includes working from home wherever possible, and the new powers to hold meetings virtually will make that easier.
“It’s critical that they continue to provide essential services and find innovative ways to maintain important economic functions they perform like the planning system and they will now be able to do so.
“We’ve given local authorities across England an additional £1.6 billion to help their crucial work in the national effort against coronavirus, and we are continuing to ensure they get all of the support that they need at this time.”
Today’s announcement covers all local authorities in England including county, district and parish councils, combined authorities and fire and rescue authorities.
It also covers all public meetings including cabinet and committee meetings, allowing them to continue to respond quickly and make key decisions remotely.
The Government has provided local authorities with £1.6bn to support their fight of the coronavirus outbreak, including more adult social care support and support for the most vulnerable in communities.