northlincs.gov.uk

Corporate Scrutiny Panel (Special Meeting) – 13 June 2013

PRESENT:  Councillor Robinson in the Chair.

Councillors Wilson (Vice-Chair), Oldfield, P Vickers and Wardle.

The panel met at the Civic Centre, Scunthorpe.

179  DECLARATIONS OF DISCOSABLE PECUNIARY INTERESTS AND PERSONAL OR PERSONAL AND PREJUDICIAL INTERESTS AND DECLARATIONS OF WHIPPING ARRANGEMENTS (IF ANY) The following members declared a personal interest: –

No whip was declared.

180  PUBLIC REQUESTS TO SPEAK – There were no requests received.

181  EXCLUSION OF THE PUBLIC – Resolved– That the public be excluded from the meeting for consideration of the following item on the grounds that it involves the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 1, and 2 of Part 1 of schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972 (as amended)

182  (6) ITEM REQUESTED FOR CALL-IN IN ACCORDANCE WITH PARAGRAPH 22 OF PART D RULE 5 (OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY PROCEDURE RULES)OF THE COUNCIL’S CONSTITUTION – Minute 68 of the Policy and Resources Cabinet Member meeting held on 7 June 2013 – Review of Trade Union Facilities – The Chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting, and invited a nominee of the members who had requested the call-in to speak on the above decision and question the Cabinet Member.  Members outlined areas of concern as reasons for seeking a review of the above decision.  These included –

• The decision was contrary to the council policy framework and not wholly consistent with the council’s budget.
• Is a change to council policy.
• Does not appear in the budget.
• Should be withdrawn.

Following a discussion on the above issues, the Policy and Resources Cabinet Member was invited to respond to the concerns and reasons for the decision being called in, and be held to account for the decision taken.  The Director of Policy and Resources, and the Assistant Director Human Resources were also invited to comment.

It was then –

Moved by Councillor Robinson and seconded by Councillor Wardle –

That no further action be taken, and the above decision of the Policy and Resources Cabinet Member (minute 68 refers) be implemented with immediate effect.

Moved by Councillor Wilson and seconded by Councillor Oldfield as an amendment –

That the decision be referred back to the decision maker for reconsideration within 5 working days to either (i) confirm the original decision, or (ii) agree to change the decision to allow for a full Elected Member debate and discussion on the issue before a further decision is taken

Amendment Lost Motion Carried

183  ADDED ITEM – There was no added item for consideration at the meeting.