Conflicts of interest
Councils are currently strengthening governance and reviewing procedures to manage potential conflicts of interest in appointments and pension fund management.
Councils are currently focusing on strengthening governance and reviewing procedures to manage potential conflicts of interest. In June 2026, Tower Hamlets councillors expressed frustration that late reports for governor appointments hindered their ability to review potential conflicts of interest. Hammersmith and Fulham's Pensions Board was scheduled to review a draft conflict of interest policy in June 2026, while Westminster's Pension Board is preparing for governance changes under a new LGPS Bill, effective April 2026, to enhance structures for asset pooling.
Broader governance frameworks are also under review, with Harrow Council's Constitution, which includes codes of conduct, discussed in May 2026. In October 2025, Waltham Forest Council's Audit and Governance Committee reviewed proposed changes to its Councillor Code of Conduct to address potential conflicts of interest when councillors act as advocates. Conflicts of interest refer to situations where personal interests could improperly influence professional judgment. No upcoming meetings are currently scheduled to discuss this topic.
Key facts
- Tower Hamlets councillors expressed frustration in June 2026 over late reports hindering review of potential conflicts of interest for governor appointments. Source
- Westminster's Pension Board is preparing for governance changes under a new LGPS Bill, effective April 2026. Source
- Waltham Forest Council reviewed proposed changes to its Councillor Code of Conduct in October 2025. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 1 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.