A New Ethical Framework for Local Government in Scotland

Foreword by the Secretary of State for Scotland

Local authorities are an integral part of Scottish democracy, serving every person in the land. Local authority councillors have a legitimate role as the elected leaders of their community. All councillors have the responsibility of maintaining good standards of conduct in the performance of their duties.

Allegations of misconduct, whether well founded or not, damage public faith in the integrity of local government. Our aim must be to build a system where allegations of misconduct can be investigated in a demonstrably fair and impartial way. This is necessary both for the protection of the public and for the protection of individuals whose names might otherwise be tarnished by unfounded accusations.

This paper, issued in parallel with papers by the Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions in England, and by the Welsh Office, seeks views on the Government’s proposals for a new ethical framework which will command the confidence of councillors, council staff and members of the public.

It also looks at the question of restrictions on the personal political activities of council officers in key posts.

In responding to this paper, you will be helping to shape the way forward for Scottish councils. I hope you will let us know your views.

The Rt. Hon. Donald Dewar MP, Secretary of State for Scotland.