The Member Conduct Committee of Charnwood Borough Council met to consider a number of issues relating to complaints made against councillors, the way complaints are dealt with and how the committee plans its work. The meeting also received an update on an ongoing review of the Council’s constitution.

Update on complaints against councillors

The Committee received a report on complaints that have been received about breaches of the Code of Conduct. Since the last meeting of the Committee on 24 June 2024, there had been three new complaints received. One complaint, against a Borough Councillor, was at the fact finding stage. This complaint relates to Bullying and intimidating behaviour and potential misuse of position . Another complaint, against a Parish or Town Councillor was also at the fact finding stage. This complaint relates to Respect and confidentiality and access to information . The third complaint was against a Birstall Parish Council Councillor. That complaint had been referred for further investigation, but was paused at the request of the complainant. It alleged that the subject Member had:

bullied and intimidated the complainant on a number of occasions

The complaint also alleged that the subject Member had brought Birstall Parish Council into disrepute, and had:

failed to follow correct decision making procedures.

Members Code of Conduct, Planning Code of Good Practice

The Committee received a report on the annual review of the Council’s Constitution. The report covered those parts of the constitution that relate to the roles of the Committee, including the Members’ Code of Conduct and the Planning Code of Good Practice. The Committee was asked to consider making recommendations for changes to the Council's constitution for consideration as part of the annual review.

Work Programme

The Committee considered its work programme at the meeting and was asked to consider adding items to, or amending, the work programme.