NALC calls for a stronger standards regime at a Select Committee for MPs
We have called for urgent reform of the local government standards framework to ensure it is fairer, stronger and more consistent across all tiers of local government. The call was made as part of evidence given to the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee during its inquiry into propriety, ethics and standards in UK local government.
Our chair, Cllr Iain Hamilton, gave evidence setting out the parish and town council perspective alongside representatives from the Local Government Association and the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives. His contribution reflected our long-standing policy position and his commitment to being a strong voice for the parish and town councils and the wider sector.
The inquiry follows the government's 2024 consultation on reforming local government standards, which accepted many of our recommendations. While we welcome this progress, we have consistently urged ministers to move quickly to implement reforms, warning that continued delay risks weakening public confidence in local democracy and undermining the ambitions of devolution.
Cllr Hamilton emphasised the vital role of parish and town councils as the first tier of local democracy and the importance of a mandatory national code of conduct applied consistently across all levels of local government. He highlighted that the current system lacks clarity, consistency and meaningful sanctions, making it challenging to address persistent misconduct and eroding trust between councillors, officers and the public. He told the Select Committee that reform "has been a long time coming, and there needs to be teeth."
Cllr Hamilton also stressed that standards, sanctions and training must operate together as part of a coherent national framework. Proportionate and enforceable sanctions, including suspension and disqualification, alongside centrally accessible and funded training, particularly for parish and town councillors, would help improve behaviour, reduce complaints and ease pressure on monitoring officers. He argued that a clear, sector-led framework would provide a sustainable foundation for raising standards over time.
The evidence session also highlighted the practical challenges faced by parish and town councils, including limited access to training, the impact of social media on conduct, and the need for clearer guidance and stronger protections against harassment. Cllr Hamilton reaffirmed our commitment to promoting high standards of conduct through initiatives such as the Civility and Respect Project and through continued engagement with government to help shape a modern and effective standards regime.
