Decision details

The Committee was requested to review and consider the effectiveness of the current Council Procedure Rules in particular rules relating to extraordinary meetings, and amendments to motions; Ordinary Motions; Inappropriate Business; Order of Business.

RESOLVED – That

The following changes be recommended to full Council: -

Motions at Extraordinary meetings

1. The current Council Meeting Procedure Rules relating to items of business at Extraordinary Meetings be revised to make it clear that Notices of Motion can be considered at Extraordinary Meetings, and that the rules of debate for Ordinary Motions as set out in Rule 22 will apply as modified in relation to notice.

Inappropriate Business

2. Inappropriate business is defined in Rule 35 of the Council Meeting Procedure Rules.  The definition does not include any matter which is unlawful or ultra vires the Council.  The Constitution Committee are recommending that matters that are ultra vires the Council or unlawful be added to the definition.

Order Of Business at Council Meetings

Rule 3 sets out an Order which puts the Leader and Cabinet Member Statements and the 90 minute Member Oral Questions and Answers ahead of Reports and Motions. It is recommended that the Full Council meetings should deal with all items of business requiring a vote including Motions ahead of these items and Rule 3 be amendedaccordingly.