gifts and hospitality
Councils are addressing concerns over gifts and hospitality policies and recording, alongside broader member conduct strategies.
Tower Hamlets Council's Standards Advisory Committee reviewed its member conduct strategy in March 2026, focusing on enhancing councillor training and addressing complaints. This included discussions on the Register of Interests and the Member Induction Programme for councillors ahead of the May local elections.
Separately, Bexley Council's internal audit in September 2025 revealed deficiencies in the recording and management of gifts and hospitality offered to employees. The audit gave 'limited assurance', highlighting the absence of a formal policy and procedure, alongside inconsistent recording practices.
No specific upcoming meetings are currently listed to discuss gifts and hospitality. This topic generally refers to items or services offered to councillors or public officials that may need to be declared to maintain transparency and prevent conflicts of interest.
Key facts
- Tower Hamlets Council's Standards Advisory Committee reviewed its member conduct strategy, including the Register of Interests, on March 12, 2026. Source
- Bexley Council's internal audit gave 'limited assurance' regarding gifts and hospitality management for employees in September 2025. Source
- The Bexley audit highlighted the absence of a formal gift and hospitality policy and procedure. Source
- The Bexley audit also noted inconsistencies in recording practices for gifts and hospitality. Source
- Tower Hamlets' Member Induction Programme for 2026 will equip councillors with essential resources. 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.