The Democracy and Standards Committee of West Northamptonshire Council is scheduled to meet on Thursday 29 January 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on the council's Code of Conduct, proposed changes to election recharges for parish and town councils, and an update on national reforms to the standards and conduct framework for local authorities.

Code of Conduct and Independent Persons Update

The committee is set to receive detailed statistics regarding complaints made under the Member Code of Conduct. This information will help the committee fulfil its duty to promote and maintain high standards of conduct within West Northamptonshire Council and its town and parish councils. Alongside this, the committee will consider the recruitment of new Independent Persons, as the terms of office for two of the current four appointees are due to expire. The Localism Act 2011¹ mandates that local authorities appoint Independent Persons to advise on Code of Conduct complaints. The report outlines the process for recruitment, which will involve public advertisement and final approval by the Full Council.

Election Recharges to Parish and Town Councils

A significant item on the agenda concerns the proposed revisions to the recharges for parish and town councils concerning uncontested elections. The report highlights that current recharging levels mean the council is subsidising these elections, and rising costs for services like printing and postage have made this unsustainable. The committee will be asked to provide feedback on three proposed options for revised recharges before these are put out for consultation with the parish and town councils. These options vary in how they calculate administrative fees and the proportion of poll card costs recharged, with the aim of achieving a more sustainable and transparent approach.

Strengthening the Standards and Conduct Framework

The committee will be updated on the government's response to the consultation on Strengthening the Standards and Conduct Framework for Local Authorities in England. This consultation, launched in December 2024, sought to reform the standards and conduct regime for local government. The government's response, published in November 2025, outlines intentions to introduce legislation for a mandatory national code of conduct, formal standards committees, individual support for complainants and subject members, a 'right for review' process, and new powers for suspension and disqualification of elected members for serious breaches. The report notes that the council's Democracy and Standards Committee had previously submitted a collective response to this consultation.

Update from the Constitution Review Task and Finish Panel

A verbal update is scheduled regarding the ongoing work of the Constitution Review Task and Finish Panel. This panel is examining the council's constitution, which is a fundamental document outlining the council's governance and decision-making processes.

Member Development

The committee will receive a verbal update on member training initiatives. This aims to ensure councillors are kept informed and equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their roles effectively.

Review of Committee Work Programme

Finally, the committee will review and note its work programme for the upcoming period. This ensures that the committee's future activities align with its responsibilities and priorities.