Councillors' code of conduct

As news has been a little scarce over the weekend, a story that might amuse.

On Saturday, the editor was asked if AudlemOnline ever gets under the skin of Cheshire East Council. Diplomatic, as ever, the editor's response was "occasionally, but they always express their displeasure politely when they call."

We wonder if our local council's exemplary manners have been influenced by the Code of Practice enforced in Melville in Western Australia, as reported in 'Funny Old World' – true stories from around the Globe – in this week's Private Eye where, credit where it is due, Cheshire East has not appeared in Rotten Boroughs for months now. We always check, just in case!

Melville's Code of Practice includes:

• Negative behaviour by elected councillors is banned
• Councillors should exercise extreme caution when expressing views on matters that may come before council at some future stage
• Behaviour that contravenes the Code could include using a sarcastic or snide tone
• Or making derogatory remarks, names or innuendos
• Or engaging in negative body language
• This can include shrugging of shoulders
• Rolling of eyes
• Deep sighing
• Finger pointing
• Turning your back on someone
• Slamming of doors
• Attacking a suggestion by saying things such as "that's a dumb idea" or "That won't work"
• Taking things personally or finding offence in comments
• Speaking to journalists
• Expressing an opinion publicly on issues before they are voted on
• Criticising a decision after it has been voted on
• Undermining existing council policies by criticising them
• Asking excessive or inappropriate questions
• Breaches of the Code will carry financial penalties

Approved behaviour includes:

• Making eye contact with the person you are talking to
• Raising your hand before speaking

Hands up if you fancy being a councillor there!

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