Decision details

The Council received the report on the allocation of seats to the Council’s committees in accordance with the political balance provisions of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.  The recommendation outlined in the report for a 58 seat scheme was proposed by Councillor Lees and seconded by Councillor Evans.

Notice of an amendment had been submitted by Councillor Barker. Councillor Barker proposed a 60 seat scheme, which would provide an additional seat to both the Residents for Uttlesford and Conservative Groups on the Planning Committee. This was seconded by Councillor Loveday.

Councillor Criscione said both schemes were valid but the 60 seat scheme created no problems for the majority group.

Councillor Hargreaves said he had conducted research and smaller committees of 8 members, were the optimal size.

Councillor Moran said more members would equate to more experience on committee.

Councillor Barker requested a recorded vote.

The amendment fell with ten votes for, eighteen against and seven abstentions.   

Councillor Evans said the rationale behind the scheme was that a smaller Planning Committee would manage its business more effectively.

The Chair took the substantive proposal to a vote.              

RESOLVED to approve the political balance of the Council and the allocation of seats set out in the report.