Councillors’ code update to outlaw harassment and bullying behaviour

Ministers plan to toughen up rules governing councillors’ behaviour to ban harassment and bullying.

They want to update the Councillors’ Code of Conduct to add that “bullying or harassment is completely unacceptable” and a breach of the code.

The existing code states councillors must “respect” all other councillors and council employees and treat them “with courtesy at all times”.

It also requires councillors to respect members of the public when carrying out their job but does not explicitly prohibit bullying or harassment.

The amended code has been submitted to the Scottish Parliament for approval following its endorsement by local government umbrella organisation Cosla. Endorsements have also been given by the independent bodies responsible for enforcing the code, the Standards Commission and the Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life.

The proposed update brings the code in line with recent changes to the rules governing the behaviour of Scottish ministers.

Local Government Minister Kevin Stewart said: “Despite the great progress that has been made in promoting and achieving equality, it is clear that harassment and bullying are still issues that need tackled and this is unacceptable.

“Government works for the people and we need to be unequivocal that prejudice of any kind will not be tolerated.

“The proposed changes to the councillors’ code mean that it will specifically condemn harassment and bullying and make clear that where behaviour falls short people can expect to be held to account.”

Cosla president Alison Evison said: “This change sends a strong message that all forms of bullying and harassment are not only completely unacceptable but are considered a breach of the code of conduct.”