A scrutiny committee has recommended a raft of changes to the council’s constitution for approval later this month, despite clashes over whether stronger freedom of speech provisions should be included.

The Democracy and Standards Committee met on Wednesday, June 3, to consider alterations to full council meetings, planning applications protocol and the members' complaints procedure.

The constitution sets out how the council operates and makes decisions, with a full review requested following the local elections in May 2025.

Recommended changes include clearer guidance on public speaking, a requirement for multiple speakers from the same group to organise a spokesperson, word limits on motions from political groups and a requirement that motions involve matters directly under the council's control.

Democracy And Standards Committee meeting in One Angel Square Credit: Nadia Lincoln LDRS

placeholder image — Democracy And Standards Committee meeting in One Angel Square Credit: Nadia Lincoln LDRS

The committee also debated reducing direct questioning time of cabinet members from 60 minutes to 20 minutes consisting only of questions.

Chair Cllr Ian McCord, Independent, said the move was an attempt to "strike a balance to allow participation and get business done".

A proposal to strengthen freedom of speech protections for councillors was debated but ultimately dropped from recommendations.

The proposed rule would have added to the Members' Code of Conduct that freedom of speech is a fundamental principle of democracy and there is no right not to be offended by lawful speech.

Cllr McCord said complaints were being used to "silence people" and that the code was being "weaponised by some members".

Liberal Democrat Cllr Christine Ware disagreed with the amendment, saying freedom of speech was already covered by the Human Rights Act and expressing concern about a "race to the bottom".

Labour leader Cllr Sally Keeble raised concerns about council premises access and said the provisions would give people a "right to be rude".

Head of democratic services Paul Hanson warned the policy changes needed proper testing before implementation.

Councillors made no resolution to add the extra free speech provisions. Other changes include altering the process for approving councillor absences and updating planning protocol to ensure officer reports are objectively balanced.

The full report will go to council on Wednesday, June 25, for final approval.