The meeting covered several key topics, including the honorary freedom of the city for HMS Protector and changes to the Cambridge City Council's governance model. The council also approved the minutes from the previous meeting and discussed future governance changes.

The most significant topic was the proposal to grant honorary freedom of the city to HMS Protector. Dan presented the report, explaining that HMS Protector has strong ties to Cambridge through its work with the British Antarctic Survey and the Scott Polar Institute. Councillor Bennett supported the proposal but suggested better public communication to explain the affiliation. Councillor Russ McPherson noted that HMS Protector is the Royal Navy's only icebreaker and highlighted its contributions to climate change research. The committee agreed to recommend this proposal to the full council.

The second major topic was the discussion on changing the council's governance model from a hybrid system to a leader and cabinet model. Dan introduced the report, explaining that the current system is seen as opaque and resource-heavy. The Centre for Governance and Scrutiny had recommended a change for better accountability and efficiency. Councillor Davey emphasized the need for better scrutiny and collective decision-making, while Councillor Young and Councillor Bennett expressed concerns about reduced involvement for backbenchers and opposition members. Despite these concerns, the committee voted to recommend the proposal to the full council, with four votes in favor and two against.

Other topics included the approval of the minutes from the previous meeting and the withdrawal of a public question. The committee also discussed the order of agenda items and confirmed that all members had access to the necessary documents.