Councillors and mayors who repeatedly break the rules or commit serious misconduct could face tougher sanctions under new proposals aimed at cleaning up local politics and restoring public confidence.
The government’s consultation response, sets out plans for a wholesale reform of the standards regime, addressing widespread concerns over inconsistent enforcement and the lack of effective penalties for breaches of conduct. Currently, councillors convicted of serious offences can remain in post until sentencing due to limited powers to suspend them.
Key proposals include:
- Mandatory code of conduct for all local authorities in England, ensuring consistent standards nationwide.
- New powers to suspend councillors for up to six months for serious misconduct.
- Withholding allowances so taxpayers’ money is not spent on councillors breaching codes of conduct.
- Requirement for standards committees, interim suspension powers, support for complainants, and a national appeals function.
Steve Reed, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, commented:
“I know firsthand the dedication and talent within our local authorities up and down the country.
“But when a small minority behave badly, it’s a disservice to those hardworking councillors and to taxpayers – distracting from the incredible work happening in our communities every day.
“We must clean up local politics by rooting out those who bring the system into disrepute. These reforms will give councils and mayoral authorities the power to do exactly that.”
The consultation revealed strong backing for reform, with 94% supporting a mandatory code and 86% supporting suspension powers. These measures will close gaps left by the 2011 Localism Act, which limited councils’ ability to act against councillors under criminal investigation for offences such as sexual harassment.
The reforms form part of the government’s wider agenda to empower local areas through devolution and deliver the Pride in Place strategy, ensuring local government remains focused on delivering for residents.
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