The Democracy and Standards Committee of West Northamptonshire Council met on Thursday 12 March 2026 to discuss the appointment of Independent Persons, review the committee's annual report, and plan its work programme for the upcoming year. The meeting also included an update on the ongoing review of the Council's Constitution.

Recruitment of Independent Persons

A key item on the agenda was the recruitment of Independent Persons, individuals who assist in the consideration of complaints made against elected Members regarding alleged breaches of the Code of Conduct. The report outlined the legal requirement under the Localism Act 2011 for local authorities to appoint at least one Independent Person. West Northamptonshire Council has maintained a cohort of four Independent Persons to manage the workload, which includes considering complaints about town and parish councillors across the 132 parish councils in the area. The report highlighted that upcoming changes to the local government standards framework, including a mandatory national code of conduct and a statutory requirement for a standards committee, are likely to increase the workload.

The committee was scheduled to consider recommendations for the appointment of four individuals: Kate Williams and Paul Hodson for four-year appointments, and Michael Turner and John Peachey for two-year appointments. These individuals bring a range of experience, including from roles in local government, public sector leadership, democratic services, and the magistracy. The report noted that tailored training would be provided to all appointed Independent Persons.

Annual Report of the Democracy and Standards Committee 2025/2026

The committee was scheduled to approve the Annual Report for the 2025/2026 period. The draft report, which included a message from Councillor Silas Hays, Chair of the Democracy and Standards Committee, reflected on the year's work. It emphasised the committee's role in safeguarding the Council's operations, ensuring sound governance, transparent decision-making, and upholding the standards of conduct for all Members. The report highlighted the establishment of a cross-party working group to review elements of the Council's Constitution as a significant piece of work. It also stressed the importance of the Nolan Principles of Public Life – selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership – and the addition of respect as a guiding principle.

The annual report detailed the committee's meetings and the items considered throughout the year, including the Register of Members' Interests, Member Onboarding Programme, and updates on the Government's consultation on strengthening the standards and conduct framework for local authorities. It also provided a summary of Code of Conduct complaints received and dealt with during the year, with a table detailing each case, its outcome, and the relevant council or parish council.

Work Programme 2026/2027

The committee was set to agree its Work Programme for the 2026/2027 municipal year. The draft programme outlined planned topics for future meetings, including updates on the Register of Members' Interests, proposed amendments to the Constitution, and national changes related to ethics and standards. It also indicated a review of the Council's Constitution and a six-monthly update on Code of Conduct arrangements. Member development and specific training needs for the committee were also listed as agenda items.

Update from the Constitution Review Task and Finish Panel

A verbal update was scheduled regarding the Constitution Review Task and Finish Panel. This panel has been working on reviewing elements of the Council's Constitution, including the Planning Protocol, Council Procedure Rules, and Officer employment rules. The report pack indicated that the Planning Protocol had undergone revisions to provide greater clarity.

Other Scheduled Discussions

The agenda also included an update on the recruitment of Independent Persons, which was linked to the broader discussion on the appointment of new individuals to these roles. The meeting was also scheduled to receive an update from the Constitution Review Task and Finish Panel.

The meeting was scheduled to take place at One Angel Square, Northampton, NN1 1ED.