MP attacks new code

LEWES MP Norman Baker has signed a Commons motion which lambasts the new code of conduct for parish and town councils as being draconian and damaging to local democracy.

Mr Baker, who is also a member of Glynde and Beddingham Parish Council, has received a series of complaints from councillors and councils who feel devalued and offended by the new code. It requires councillors to register personal, prejudicial and financial interests as well as gifts and hospitality.

He said the code was excessive because town and parish councillors were unpaid volunteers who lived in their local community. He believed the code would unnecessarily open up councillors' private lives for public scrutiny and deter many from standing for office again.

Mr Baker drew a sharp contrast with House of Commons procedure where interests generally only have to be declared when a relevant matter arises.

And he said: 'The requirements under the code of conduct are absurdly high. Many town and parish councillors feel insulted and some are even resigning in protest. The combined effect is undermining local democracy and the effectiveness of local government.

'Town and parish councils in my constituency and nationwide must be helped and not hindered in performing their crucial duties.

'Unpaid volunteers serving their local communities do not deserve to be treated this way.

'The existing system whereby an interest is declared when a related matter arises on an agenda works well and does not need to be altered.

'This code is completely over the top and the Government really should think again.'