Barnet Council's recent constitutional changes, approved during the Annual Council meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, have sparked concerns among some councillors regarding transparency and democratic participation. The amendments, which included changes to committees and the number of seats allocated to each to comply with Political Balance Requirements, were met with significant opposition from Councillor Charli Thompson.
Councillor Thompson argued that the changes weaken democratic participation, transparency and fairness within this Council.
A key point of contention was the removal of deputations from full council meetings. The removal of deputations from full Council is particularly concerning,
she stated. Full Council is the borough's main democratic forum, the place where residents can speak directly to every elected Councillor in public. Removing that right reduces visibility, accountability and public voice.
Further concerns were raised about the impact on smaller parties and ungrouped members. Councillor Thompson highlighted that the changes would reduce committee representation and provide no meaningful protections for smaller parties or ungrouped members.
She emphasised that Residents do not lose their right to representation because they elected someone outside the main political groups,
implying a negative impact on their ability to scrutinise council decisions and contribute to policy development.
Councillor Thompson also expressed apprehension that these changes appear to have been agreed between the major parties behind closed doors, without a clear democratic mandate, meaningful consultation or proper opportunity for amendment and scrutiny by all elected members.
The council also agreed to delegate authority to the Monitoring Officer to make any further consequential amendments to the Constitution in consultation with the group leaders.
Despite these objections, the proposed constitutional amendments were agreed by 62 votes to one during the meeting, the details of which can be found in the public reports pack. The agenda for the meeting is available here.
