Decision details

(i) In relation to each and every member of the council, the circumstances listed below, may be given as a reason for a failure to attend any meeting of the council, Executive, committee or subcommittee (a relevant meeting), by any member of the council during the relevant period and the same will be approved as a reason for non-attendance for the purposes of Section 85 of the Local Government Act 1972:
a) Has contracted or been infected by Covid 19
b) Has tested positive for Covid 19
c) Is suspected of having or suspects that he/she has contracted or
been infected by Covid 19
d) Has concerns that they may contract or become infected with Covid 19
e) Is in quarantine or self-isolating (whether or not on the instruction or advice of any public authority or medical professional) in relation to Covid 19
f) Is unable to attend the relevant meeting because the meeting is cancelled or postponed for a reason relating to Covid 19
g) The relevant period for the purposes of the above is the period from the passing of the resolution until 7 May 2021 subject to monthly reviews.

(ii) that the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chair of each Committee or Meeting as necessary, vary the rules by which meetings are discharged in accordance with the principles set out at Article 14.2 of the Constitution and permitted by regulatory suspension of standing orders relating to meetings.

(iii) that the above recommendations, as resolved, be noted at the next meeting of Council.

To enable the Council to respond to the Local Authorities and Police and Crime Panels (Coronavirus) (Flexibility of Local Authority and Police and Crime Panel Meetings) (England and Wales) Regulations 2020 (the 2020 Regulations).

a) Take no action – Members may become vulnerable to S85, due to no fault of their own, as there would be disruption to the planned Calendar of meetings, which may be moved, postponed or cancelled at short notice and would therefore be potentially suspended.

b) Adopt the recommendations set out in the report – this would offer assurance that Members are able to continue to conduct their roles.