Written evidence to be reported to the House
Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Bill
2:16 pm
Phil Woolas: Common sense is the answer. An appointed member cannot take part in a decision to co-opt a member. As members of the Committee know, at the moment when a vacancy exists a co-option can take place because of the problem that Mr. Stunell outlined. The National Association of Local Councils reports that it is useful to be able to have members with particular standing in the community or expertise. The head teacher whom Angela mentioned is a good example. In my constituency, one of the museum chairs is a member of the parish council. The safeguard is that they are not allowed to take part in the decision to co-opt others.
It is common sense really. The 8,600 and so parish councils range from some that are an annual dinner through to some that are bigger than the smallest districts. A desire to empower communities and build a sense of community is behind the ability to appoint such people.