The Constitution of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames was scheduled for approval at this meeting. The document outlines the fundamental rules governing the council's operations, including its structure, decision-making processes, and the rights of residents.

The Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames Constitution

The meeting's primary focus was the proposed Constitution of the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, scheduled for approval. This comprehensive document details how the council operates, makes decisions, and ensures transparency and accountability to its residents.

The Constitution is divided into several parts:

• Part 1: Introduction provides an overview of the council's operational framework, the scope of the Constitution, and the rights of the public.
• Part 2: Articles of the Constitution outlines the various bodies within the council, their roles and responsibilities, and mechanisms for public participation in decision-making.
• Part 3: Responsibility for Functions details how the council's functions are allocated to specific decision-making bodies or individuals. This includes terms of reference for various committees such as the Audit, Governance and Standards Committee, the Development Control Committee, and the Licensing Committee, as well as joint arrangements and statutory bodies.
• Part 4: Rules of Procedure sets out the detailed procedural rules for council meetings, access to information, call-in procedures, contract regulations, financial regulations, officer employment, and the petition scheme.
• Part 5: Codes and Protocols includes codes of conduct for members and officers, as well as protocols for member-officer relations, planning, and the relationship between the Leader and Chief Executive.
• Part 6: Members' Allowances Scheme details the allowances paid to the Mayor, councillors, and co-opted members.
• Part 7: Glossary of Terms provides definitions for key terms used throughout the Constitution.

The report pack also included version control information, detailing revisions made to the Constitution over time, with the most recent update scheduled for 1 April 2025. The document aims to ensure that the council's decision-making is efficient, transparent, and accountable to residents.