A NEW code of practice on training and educational visits for Fareham councillors has been introduced following intervention by the Liberal Democrats.

It follows the Council executive leader's refusal of an application by Councillor Katrina Trott to attend a planning summer school for Councillors run by the Royal Town Planning Institute.

Liberal Democrat councillors called in the decision for review by the council's scrutiny board, to clarify whether it was in line with overall policy.

Service

The Liberal Democrats pointed out that the summer school had been advertised in the council's members' newsletter, and that members were reminded of it at a subsequent planning strategy meeting. Members were told that the £779 cost of the school, and travelling costs, could be funded within existing budgets. These factors implied it was felt attendance by a member would enhance the service the council gives to residents. Over the years, numerous councilors have attended conferences or training sessions on a similar basis.

Councillor Trott then applied to attend, supported by both the executive member responsible for planning, and by the chief planning officer.

However, the executive leader, Councillor Sean Woodward, rejected the application, arguing that training should be provided by alternative means for a greater number of councillors. No details of alternative training  were given at that time.

Assurance

At the call-in meeting, the executive leader disclosed that the Planning Advisory Service had now offered a free training session for all councillors.

Liberal Democrats, acknowledging that all councils now need to make considerable savings, asked if such on-site training would now be the norm, rather than attendance at outside events. The executive leader replied: "Yes, the days of that are at an end."

On that assurance, the Liberal Democrats accepted that the over-riding need was for austerity, and the scrutiny board unanimously agreed that the decision should stand.

We believe our use of  the call-in procedure will have helped the council enhance its training while cutting costs.

Insight

Councillor Trott still intends to attend the RTPI summer school, but at no cost to the council. Speakers will include ministers in the new government, and we believe it will give insights on changes in government policy which will be of benefit to the council, and hence to Fareham residents.