The government is planning to introduce legislation that would make codes of conduct mandatory for all local authorities in England, a Croydon Council ethics committee meeting heard.
During a discussion on recent developments in ethical standards, Gina Clark, Head of Corporate Commercial & Planning and Deputy Monitoring Officer, informed the committee of potential government proposals. These proposals include legislating for a mandatory code of conduct for all local authorities, which would require primary legislation. The government also intends to legislate to provide greater rights to complainants and elected members to review standards committee decisions.
Furthermore, proposals are being considered to grant local authorities the power to suspend elected members for serious breaches of the code of conduct for up to six months. In serious cases, this could include withholding member allowances and instituting bans from council premises. There is also a proposal to disqualify elected members if they receive a suspension of six months twice within a five-year period.
The government also plans to legislate on arrangements for appeals to Code of Conduct decisions, potentially involving a national body.
Regarding the proposed government legislation on ethical standards, Gina Clark stated that it is difficult to provide a precise timeline for its introduction. She indicated that clarity might not emerge until November, potentially following the King's speech where new legislation is outlined. Ms. Clark noted that she was not aware of any bill having been produced for this legislation yet, but anticipated that the government would provide notice once a decision is made, which would then clarify the timetable.
The committee noted the report, which also highlighted a high-profile investigation into six councillors involved in a WhatsApp group, which led to some councillors stepping down and a local MP being suspended from the Labour Party. The report also touched upon the use of social media by councillors, including data protection implications.
Gina Clark further elaborated on the data protection implications of councillors using social media, particularly when discussing council business. She noted that councillors could be at risk and that the council could be held responsible. However, if councillors are acting in a personal capacity, they may be considered the data controller for the information they use. The proposed legislation is expected to remind members of these implications.
Councillor Catherine Wilson, Chair of the Ethics Committee, presided over the meeting on Wednesday, 11 March 2026. Other attendees included Councillor Brigitte Graham (Vice-Chair), Councillors Mario Creatura, Helen Redfern, Luke Shortland, Esther Sutton, and independent members Ashok Kumar and Joanne Middlewick. The full report can be accessed here: Public reports pack 11th March 2026 18:30 Ethics Committee.
