Committee on Standards in Public Life to review local government standards

The Committee on Standards in Public Life (CSPL)  is to undertake a review of local government standards during 2017/18.

In its Annual Report and Forward Plan 2017/18, published this week, the watchdog said it “maintains a longstanding interest in local government standards, and regularly receives correspondence from members of the public expressing their concern about this issue”.

The CSPL added that it was actively conducting research and engaging with partners on this subject throughout 2016-17.

It said the review would be based around a consultation that will be launched in early 2018. “Based on the submissions to this review and meetings with key stakeholders, we intend to publish our findings and recommendations in 2018.”

The CSPL revealed that it would be publishing in late 2017 the findings of research it had conducted as a follow-up on its 2014 report and 2015 guidance on ethical standards for providers of public services. “We will use this opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of ethical standards issues in the delivery of public services across all providers.”

Other areas the watchdog plans to cover include how developments in social and political communication and media are shaping public life. It also plans to keep a watching brief on issues surrounding conflicts of interests and good governance in academies, and on standards issues in the NHS.