Parish Council reform needed TODAY

HUGH ROBERTSON WRITES TO JOHN PRESCOTT DEMANDING THAT HE ABOLISHES THE CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PARISH COUNCILLORS

Hugh Robertson has today written to the Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott, asking him to suspend the new code of conduct for Parish Councillors. The code was introduced by the current government as part of the Local Government Act 2000.

Hugh is concerned about two aspects of the code. Firstly, it fails to distinguish between major and minor breaches. As an example, it is now mandatory to disclose any interest of any relative and then withdraw from the room when those interests are discussed. It is also mandatory to register any gift or hospitality over £25. This is far too prescriptive.

Secondly, as a result of the introduction of the code, many parish councils are now short of councillors which is harming the work of many local communities.

Hugh said, "I represent a constituency with 39 different parish councils. Many of them are now short of councillors and this ridiculous code is to blame.

It is a classic case of using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. The overwhelming majority of parish councillors are honest, well-intentioned people who want to contribute to their local community. Rural communities need a vibrant parish council if they are to flourish"

I want the Deputy Prime Minister to abolish the code. It is absurdly draconian.