Agenda item

Report of the Town Clerk.

The Committee considered a report of the Town Clerk which had been submitted on behalf of the Members’ Diversity Working Party. The report recommended the introduction of targets for representation on the Court of Common Council, as well as the introduction of a voluntary Members’ Diversity Charter.

Members noted that a revised page 46 had been tabled, which set out corrected figures at table 5.

A number of Members spoke to express significant concerns in respect of the various targets associated with age, in particular as set out at table 3, observing that they could be perceived to constitute age discrimination. The particular age ranges and cut-off points were queried, together with the practical application of the target age ranges. Concern was also expressed as to the perceived benefits of targets associate with age, with a number of Members observing that those within certain age ranges were likely to have professional or personal commitments which would prohibit extensive time commitment, whereas those from older groups would likely have more capacity to contribute time to public life.

Several Members spoke in support of the introduction of targets, arguing that it would be an important statement of intent. Members also stressed that, without targets for measurement, there would be no driver for action to be taken; it was noted that the independent Members of the Diversity Working Party had been particularly robust in respect of this recommendation. The importance of the Court reflecting the City constituency more closely was also highlighted. 

Members expressed concern at the use of the word “target”, arguing that “aspiration” would be preferable. It was stressed that it was a matter for the electorate to determine whom they wished to elect and the City Corporation should, therefore, not be seen in any way to tell people whom they should vote for; the use of the word “aspiration” would assist in avoiding any confusion in this area.

Members also debated the proposed Diversity Charter, with several highlighting issues with the wording of the various clauses as currently drafted. In particular, there was concern around the application of clause two (concerning photographs), the omission of reference to both ethnicity and capability within clause four, and the requirements associated with clause six. Following debate, Members indicated support for the principle of a Charter but agreed that further work needed to be undertaken in respect of clarifying certain aspects and revising the content to address concerns raised.

It was suggested that the Working Party be asked to revisit the recommendations and report back accordingly. However, a number of Members expressed concern that not agreeing the proposals, or adding further delay to the process, would serve to blunt the efficacy of the Working Party’s suite of recommendations, thereby significantly hampering efforts to improve the City Corporation’s approach to Member Diversity more widely. It was therefore agreed that the Town Clerk should be asked to re-draft the report for the next meeting, reflecting and addressing the comments raised by the Committee, thereby minimising any delay.

RESOLVED: That the Town Clerk be asked to re-draft the report for the next meeting of the Committee, reflecting the comments and concerns raised by Members.