Decision - Managing Confidential Information

68.1         The Committee considered a report of the Head of Law and Monitoring Officer in relation to Managing Confidential Information. The report sought to inform the Committee on the outcome of the investigation into incidents of unauthorised disclosure of confidential information, and the proposed actions to address the identified shortcomings.

68.2         Councillor Hamilton noted that the report had been discussed at the pre-meeting, and following this Officers had taken advice and moved items previous listed as Part 2 into Part 1 on the agenda.

68.3         Councillor Lepper welcomed the report, and went to discuss the increased use of social media by Officers and Members. She stated there was no guidance in relation to the matter, and asked that clearer protocols be put in place to help guide both Officers and Members. The Head of Law and Monitoring Officer agreed that clarity and updated guidance was necessary.

68.4         Councillor Sykes explained that he welcomed the additional openness and transparency, and asked how the new Code of Conduct sought to address breaches of confidentially by Members. In response the Head of Law and Monitoring Officer explained that the regime had no formal sanctions that could be imposed for Members found to have breached the Code; however, Standards Panels could make recommendations to Group Leaders that Members be removed from Committees. Furthermore the Council had the power to withdraw facilities if there was persistent misuse; however, there was case law that suggested this could not affect their ability to operate as a Councillor.

68.5         The Head of Law and Monitoring Officer added that the changes proposed in the report would need the support of Committee Chairs and Officers.

68.6         Dr Meleyal stated that she worked with a number of regulatory bodies, and there was an understanding that social media had gathered pace faster than guidance could be drafted to deal with this growth.

68.7         Councillor Hamilton suggested that the report be referred to Council for information.

68.8         RESOLVED –

        i.            That the Committee notes, and agreed in principle, the proposed actions and implementation schedule as set in this report and the appendix.

      ii.            That the Committee notes that further reports will be submitted to the Committee with proposed revisions to the various codes and protocols that fall within the remit of the Committee, especially many of those covered under Action 3 in paragraph 3.3 of the report.

    iii.            That the report be referred to Council for information.