Issue - items at meetings - Future of Scrutiny Policy risk management potential

Report of the Strategic Director Resources

(This report was considered after item 63)

62. 1 The Head of Scrutiny Tom Hook introduced the report on the future of scrutiny, in the context of the introduction of intelligent commissioning, the new council structure and changes in legislation. He anticipated a more flexible scrutiny function, moving towards a focus on partnership working and more workshop-style sessions.

62.2 Members discussed the proposals and expressed some preference for Option 1 (paragraph 3.26). It was suggested that greater engagement in scrutiny by Strategic Directors would be beneficial.

62.3 Councillor Warren Morgan, Chairman of ECSOSC, asked that the scrutiny of Crime and Disorder be reviewed. He referred to the Community Safety Forum chaired by the Executive, and the risk of duplication. 

62.4 Chris Todd welcomed a move for greater involvement of the Community and Voluntary Sector that would bring added value to scrutiny and to working with partners he said.

62.5 RESOLVED That the Commission agrees in principle the direction of travel as set out in the report and instructs officers to further develop proposals for a partnership-based commissioning- friendly scrutiny function.