Public Participation at Parish Council Meeting

Adopted Sept 2007

The Council being subject to law finds that Members of The Public have no statutory right to speak at meetings of The parish Council.

That is to say - The Council, whilst in session cannot be FORCED to hear the views of members of the public

However, s.1 Public Bodies (Admissions to Meetings) Act provides that meetings must be open to the public and Schedule 12 Local government Act 1972 gives all local authorities (parish, borough and county) the power to make standing orders to regulate business.

Ford Parish Council having regard to The Local Authorities (Model Code of conduct) order. Section 12(2) as adopted will henceforth allow members of the Public to speak to Council members immediately before a Council discussion on an issue, for a maximum of five minutes. Only to make representations, give evidence, and to put questions relating to the issue to be discussed.

Section 12(2) gives Parish Councillors the right to join in the debate of an issue to which they have declared a prejudicial interest, provided that members of the public are afforded similar rights.

As a matter of practice and for a host of reasons the public forum will be kept separate from the debate of councillors.

ie. Members of the public will not be allowed to speak during the debate by The Council

Previous notice by a member of the public of his/her intention to speak about an issue to be discussed by The Parish Council must in normal circumstances be given to The Clerk or Chairman before the commencement of The Meeting, but can be subject to the Chairmans discretion.