This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Donald Dewar launches new drive to improve standards in local government
23/04/1998
The Rt Hon Donald Dewar MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, today published a consultation paper designed to secure the highest standards of conduct in Scottish local government.
The development of a new ethical framework for local government is fundamental to building the strongest possible future role for councils.
Launching The Scottish Office consultation paper A New Ethical Framework for Local Government at COSLA's annual conference in Aberdeen today the Secretary of State said:
"Local government can only take on new challenges if it commands the respect of its citizens and the support of its partners. The vast majority of councillors are descent, honest and hardworking. That is why we must not let the behaviour of the few undermine the many.
"That is why I am today publishing a consultation paper on the creation of a new ethical framework for local government. I believe it is important that allegations of misconduct should be independently and effectively investigated. Where allegations are unfounded they should be dismissed decisively. But where there has been a real abuse of public office judgement should be swift and strong.
"Our work to develop a new ethical framework follows on from the publication last year of the Nolan Committee's report on local government conduct.
"We propose that serious allegations of misconduct should be considered by a new National Standards Commission for Scotland led by a Scottish Standards Commissioner, and made up of respected figures some from local government but with others drawn from a wider field. An investigator appointed by, and reporting to the Standards Commission would recommend whether in any individual case sanctions were appropriate. These could include censure, temporary suspension from office, or a period of disqualification from office as a councillor.
"The consultation paper seeks views on whether the Commission's findings should automatically be enforced, or whether the final responsibility for deciding on enforcement should rest with councils.
"The consultation paper also delivers on the Government's commitment to consult about possible relaxations to the restrictions on certain council officers' political activities. I believe it is important that officers in key posts are seen to give politically impartial service to the council which employs them, whatever its political complexion. If the existing regulations go beyond what is necessary to achieve this then I can see a good case for change, and I look forward to consultation responses."
News Release: 0817/98
April 23, 1998