To elect a Chairman/woman for the meeting.

Councillor Stocks was elected Chairwoman for the meeting.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Haddock and Thomas (D).

To confirm as a correct record the Minutes of the meeting of the Standards Committee held on 13 July 2016.

The Minutes of the meeting of the Standards Committee held on 13 July 2016 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.

To note the report on the above.

Members noted a report that had been compiled by the Committee on Standards in Public Life.  The Assistant Director of Corporate and Business Services informed Members that the report provided a ‘health check’ by reviewing the seven principles of public life.  She further advised that it was important that future training incorporates the recommendations set out in the report with scrutiny of standards being a deterrent in itself.

Members welcomed the suggestion of the Members Bulletin including information/topics related to Standards and the Code of Conduct and a refresh of Code of Conduct Training being built into the Members training plan.

To note the above.

The Committee noted the report and were advised by the Assistant Director of Corporate and Business Services that there is very little case law in respect of Standards, therefore this judgement was welcomed especially as it clarifies the position in respect of complaints regarding Brixham Town Councillors and the imposition of sanctions.

To reflect on Council Meetings and discuss whether further development is required.

Members views were sought on current Council Meetings and their suggestions for improvements to Council Meetings going forward.  Members felt they were well run with Members comments occasionally being a little too close to the mark.  The Committee did express concern at the length of the meetings and felt that the start time should be flexible with a ridged finish time, therefore the end of the meeting would dictate the start time.  Members requested that the Mayor and Group Leaders consider this proposal.

Members also requested a quick reference document of various Standing Orders such as Point of Personal Explanation, be published on Mod.gov for Members to refer to in the meeting.  Members further suggested the Chairwoman-Elect send an email just prior to the commencement of the Municipal Year and announce at the meeting the level of conduct she will expect from Members.