More About the Scrutiny Committees

The four overview and scrutiny committees (known simply as "scrutiny committees") support the work of the Cabinet and the Council as a whole. The Scrutiny Commission oversees and co-ordinates the activities of the scrutiny committees.

Together, they allow citizens to have a greater say in Council matters by holding public inquiries into matters of local concern. These lead to reports and recommendations which advise the Cabinet and the Council on its policies, budget and service delivery. Scrutiny committees also monitor the decisions of the Cabinet. The Scrutiny Commission can "call-in" a decision which has been made by the Cabinet but not yet implemented. This enables it to consider whether the decision is appropriate and it may recommend that the Cabinet reconsiders the decision. They may also be consulted by the Cabinet or the Council on forthcoming decisions and the development of policy.

Each year the Scrutiny Commission publishes an Overview and Scrutiny Annual Report.

Changes to Scrutiny Arrangements

At the meeting of the Borough Council on Monday, 26th April 2004 it was agreed to change the way in which the Council's overview and scrutiny committees are organised. With effect from 17th May 2004, there are now four scrutiny committees in addition to the Scrutiny Commission. These are: