Councillor complaint advisers required

A RECRUITMENT drive is under way to find independent people to give views on future complaints about councillors and the dismissal of senior officers.

Leicestershire County Council and Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Combined Fire Authority must seek the views of independent advisers before making decisions on cases relating to potential breaches of the code of conduct, or any proposal to dismiss a senior officer.

Six people are wanted, who have an interest in local government and politics and who can take a fair and objective view.

Applicants should have knowledge of local government and the political process, a strong commitment to high standards and ethics in public life and the ability to analyse complex situations and legal requirements.

Applications are not permitted from anyone who has been a councillor or worked for either organisation during the past five years, is a friend of a councillor or officer, or who is engaged in local political activity.

The four-year role does not have a salary but expenses are reimbursed.