20 February 2004
The Standards Commission for Scotland, set up almost a year ago to investigate allegations of misconduct against councillors and members of public bodies, has launched its first investigation.
It will inquire into allegations that three Scottish National Party members of Renfrewshire Council, David Mylet, James Mitchell and Derek Mackay, breached the 'principles of leadership and respect' relating to good conduct in the council chamber or in committee.
The complainant, understood to be another councillor, alleges that the council's code of conduct was breached at a meeting of the lifelong learning and work policy board of the council on June 5, 2003.
Labour is the largest party on Renfrewshire Council, with 21 of the 40 members, while the SNP has 15. In recent years, a number of meetings have been disrupted because of bitter clashes between the two parties.
The commission was established under a new ethical framework for Scotland provided for in the Ethical Standards in Public Life (Scotland) Act 2000.
Investigations into alleged breaches of the code of conduct are conducted by a chief investigating officer who can submit a report to the commission. It can then choose to take no action, instruct a further investigation or decide to hold a hearing in public.
The commission announced this week that it has formed a 12-strong working party to promote best practice in ethical behaviour throughout public life.
The group's aim during the next six months will be to assist local authorities, government agencies and public organisations support their elected and appointed members to abide by the new codes of conduct.
Professor Lorne Crerar, convener of the Standards Commission, said: 'Scotland already enjoys a high level of integrity in public life. Our aim is to promote the principles of the code of conduct, in order that everyone employed in serving or supplying the public through councils, devolved public bodies and other organisations is aware of these principles and is encouraged to follow them too.'
PFfeb2004
