RENEWING LOCAL DEMOCRACY: THE NEXT STEPS
APPENDIX A TIMETABLE FOR THE NEXT STEPS
Today we are setting out a timetable for the next steps to take forward the principles of Kerley, as detailed below:
- Before the Parliament's Easter Recess, the publication of a White Paper on the future of local government based on the principles of Kerley including future governance, councillors' allowances and options for electoral reform. This will be followed by a consultation period lasting 4 months.
- Following publication of the White Paper the Executive will instruct the drafting of appropriate clauses to reflect the options contained in the White Paper.
- During the summer the Executive will analyse the results of the consultation on the White Paper, and prepare its response, in consultation with the Labour and Liberal Democrat backbench groups.
- Shortly after Parliament reconvenes in September 2002 the Executive will set out the next steps in relation to legislation and the future governance of Councils.
The First Minister and Deputy First Minister intend to ensure that this debate will be set in the context of renewing and supporting local government as a vital part of our democratic system. They will emphasise the crucial role of local elected councillors.
18 December 2001