English councils advised to do Scrutiny the South Norfolk way

Nominations are invited for the fourth South Norfolk Council Design Awards – an annual scheme created by the council to encourage high quality building design, and to raise awareness of its value to the district. David Edleston, Conservation and Design Architect, South Norfolk Council.

In its guidance issued this week with the message “Better Scrutiny for better Government”, the Centre commends South Norfolk Council saying it has provided dedicated officers with a duty and obligation to give impartial and independent advice to its Scrutiny Committee. It puts the council at the cutting edge of the debate which demands “parity of esteem” between those who make policies and those who call them in.

Councillor Christopher Kemp, who sits in the Shadow Cabinet and is chairman of the Scrutiny Committee said:

“Norfolk’s motto is ‘Do Different’. This accolade from the Centre for Public Scrutiny shows that here in South Norfolk we also ‘Do Better’. This recognition of our flagship achievement in Scrutiny is a just return for the efforts of both members and officers to make Scrutiny work effectively.”

Richard Carden, Council Leader said:

“I am delighted that the pioneering work of the Council in this area has been recognised. The Cabinet/Executive system can only operate properly if there are effective checks and balances in place. Members of all parties on South Norfolk Council should be commended for their contribution to the system - it works well.”

Tony Fielder is the dedicated Scrutiny Officer for South Norfolk Council. He said:

“Officers and councillors often ask me what to expect and what to do when they come to Scrutiny Committee. I tell them to be open and honest. This is not about allocating blame, it’s about improving services for South Norfolk.”

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