Councilors are vital to local government; without them the system as we understand it could not work. However, their role is often misunderstood and there are a number of myths and
half-truths surrounding their position. The introduction of the Localism Act 2011 allied to the abolition of the Standards Board in England has in many cases made the position less clear that it was before. In addition, the rules and approach in Wales are different.
You might find this book interesting
Written by Cornerstone Barristers, Edited by Philip Kolvin
ISBN: 9781780433301 Published by Bloomsbury Professional Price £60.00
http://www.bloomsburyprofessional.com/u ... a0PjK.dpufIt is littered throughout with short case studies of 2 types: hypothetical questions which are then answered; and brief reports of investigations into councillors' conduct from around the country. Those are amplified by Appendix E which contains digests of key cases.
This is not just a handy reference book to Councillors conduct: it is an indispensable guide and should be the first port of call when questions arise. It is potentially even more useful than that. It would be good practice for every councillor to read it when they are first elected. That suggestion would also benefit a great many local government officers.
Without a clear understanding of all parties of the role, responsibilities and restrictions placed upon councillors, local authorities place themselves in a difficult position. They may not make the best use of their councillors and may also find themselves in judicial jeopardy. This book goes a long way to assiting local authorities to get these matter right.