Ethics and Standards
The Local Government Act 2000 established a new 'ethical framework' for local government in Wales, the main components of which are:-
- the introduction of a set of Principles which govern the conduct of elected and co-opted members of County Councils and Community Councils in Wales
- a model Code of Conduct for elected and co-opted members, which must be consistent with the above Principles
- a requirement for each County Council to establish a standards committee to promote and maintain high standards of conduct by members of the County Council and the Community Councils situated in its area
- investigation of alleged breaches of the Code of Conduct by the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales, who may refer matters to the Council's Ethics & Standards Committee or to the Adjudication Panel for Wales, an independent body established under the 2000 Act
- a register of interests of the members and co-opted members of the County Council
Public Services Ombudsman Wales
The Public Services Ombudsman for Wales has legal powers to look into complaints about public services and independent care providers in Wales. The Ombudsman also investigates complaints that members of local government bodies have breached their authority’s code of conduct. He is independent of all government bodies and provides a free and independent service.
For further information, visit the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales website.