Chair’s statement on the government response to ‘Strengthening the standards and conduct framework for local authorities in England’ consultation.

The EIC welcomes the government’s proposals for a stronger and more accountable standards system for local government published today. The proposed changes, which include a mandatory code of conduct and sanctions for serious misconduct, pick up the recommendations made by our predecessors.

We know the majority of councillors and officers want to maintain the highest standards of conduct in their own authority and that poor behaviour by a minority can have a disproportionate effect. These proposals – if enacted – should help address some of the gaps and weaknesses in standards in this important area of our public life.

Whether elected or appointed, all those working on behalf of the taxpayer are expected to live up to the Nolan Principles. We will be watching the passage of this legislation with interest.

Background information can be found here:

The CSPL report on Local Government Ethical Standards and a seminar summary note of the CSPL 2025 roundtable on proposed changes to the local government standards framework.