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The Council noted that:
 
• The intimidation and abuse of
councillors, in person or otherwise, undermines democracy; it can
prevent elected members from representing the communities they
serve, deter individuals from standing for election, and undermine
public trust in democratic processes.
 
• According to the Local Government
Association, in 2022 seven in 10 councillors reported experiencing
abuse and intimidation and councillors reported feeling that abuse
is becoming more common and increasing in severity.
 
• Debating and disagreeing with one
another has always been, and will continue to be, a healthy part of
democracy. However, the right engagement matters and abuse and
intimidation crosses the line into
dangerous territory and has no place in politics.
 
• The council has already taken action in light of increased risks to
councillor safety. This Council has previously voted unanimously to
tackle hate crime and incorporated definitions of antisemitism and
Islamophobia into our Constitution. Other measures taken include
reviewing councillor surgeries, risk assessing venues and providing
personal safety training.
 
• This council resolves to sign the Local
Government’s Association’s Debate Not Hate public
statement.
 
• This council resolves to work through
the Constitutional Working Group to implement a Civility in Public
Life action plan that supports civil debate, addresses the evolving
forms of abuse and intimidation faced by elected members and
ensures the welfare and safety of all members while they fulfil
their democratic and civic roles.