Cllr John Duffy has won a place on Brent Council's Resources and Public Realm Scrutiny Committee after a surprise vote in the Labour Group. I understand that he defeated Cllr Roxanne Mashari, who recently resigned from the Cabinet, by 16 votes to 12.
The vote took place after the Labour Group refused to endorse a move by the leadership to have the nomination ruled out of order on the grounds that it had been received late.
In an email to members of the Labour Group Cllr Duffy had said that he was standing because it was important that the Scrutiny Committee had independent minded people who would be proactive in ensuring that the Cabinet be called to account. They should be able to analyse information and costings and have some understanding of local government finance.
He claimed that the Committee needed to be bolder and more inquisitive and less concerned about procedures and more willing to take on board what those making representations to it were saying. .
Cllr Duffy was not at the meeting himself as he was delayed by the tube strike.
The Labour Group decision appears to represent a loosening of Muhammed Butt's grip on Labour councillors and a recognition that many difficult and controversial decisions are being made without the necessary discussion and scrutiny.
The vote took place after the Labour Group refused to endorse a move by the leadership to have the nomination ruled out of order on the grounds that it had been received late.
In an email to members of the Labour Group Cllr Duffy had said that he was standing because it was important that the Scrutiny Committee had independent minded people who would be proactive in ensuring that the Cabinet be called to account. They should be able to analyse information and costings and have some understanding of local government finance.
He claimed that the Committee needed to be bolder and more inquisitive and less concerned about procedures and more willing to take on board what those making representations to it were saying. .
Cllr Duffy was not at the meeting himself as he was delayed by the tube strike.
The Labour Group decision appears to represent a loosening of Muhammed Butt's grip on Labour councillors and a recognition that many difficult and controversial decisions are being made without the necessary discussion and scrutiny.
Good news that they have appointed someone who clearly aims to be responsible with the spending of our money. If they listen to Cllr Duffy, who appears to have an eye for this - I'm sure there will be less red faces all around due to repeated schoolings on finances by Cllr Warren.
ReplyDeleteThis is an accurate account of events. Furthermore, Butt had to be instructed to leave the room as he failed to follow usual protocol whereby only backbenchers are present when positions on Scrutiny are determined.
ReplyDeleteOh dear! Didn't they let the big bully stay in the room to ensure that only someone who would be compliant was elected. Oh dear, dear, dear.
DeleteLet the real scrutiny begin!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteEdited comment: Class act that Butt, isn't he!
ReplyDeleteSlow learners though, that Labour group. Still, a bit of progress.
Butt had spent the previous agenda item lavishing praise on mashari, so it's clear who the establishment candidate was.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Cllr Duffy about time someone with integrity got voted on scrutiny panel.
ReplyDeleteBut shouldn't ALL of our councillors act with integrity?
DeleteIt is one of the seven general conduct principles in public life (along with selflessness, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership) which all of Brent's councillors have signed up to comply with under the Members' Code of Conduct.
Philip.
Oh. How sad. No wonder he wanted to stay in the room.
ReplyDeleteAt last someone with some BALLS has been voted in, go Duffy Whoop Whoop, at least he will set them straight on numerous issues and not take no bullshit. Well Done Duffy for Leader.
ReplyDelete