Golders Green and Finchley: Monday 26 July, 6.30pm, St Michael's Church Hall, Golders Green, NW11 8HLNow, just a warning, if you wanted to raise the issue of council leader and cabinet member allowances increases, the new chair of the Chipping Barnt residents forum, Barry Evangeli, told attendees last week they could not talk about that.
Hendon: Tuesday 27 July, 6.30pm, Sangam Centre, 210 Burnt Oak Broadway, HA8 OAP
But there's no reason why we should not have a try at the other forums. Force the chairs of those bodies to make the same ruling, if they dare - then we should make an official complaint to the council, because at these forums residents should be allowed to raise any item related to council business.
If they refuse to answer questions on any matter, that's up to them and we are entitled to interpret their silence, but they have no right to stop residents raising questions. Here is the relevant passage in the council's constitution:
Residents Forums perform a consultative and advisory role.
They provide an opportunity for any resident to comment on any aspect of council service, plans and proposals.
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Everyone with a MOBILE PHONE should - I suggest - try and RECORD the discussion (or the banning of any discussion!).
Even if you are not able, or willing, to record it, please LOOK as though you are, to challenge the council's total ban (not that these meetings are in council buildings).
If anyone is disgusted enough to walk out, please take a photo FIRST!
I am sure the bloggers of Barnet would be interested in any audio files or photos.
Last night at the Finchley & Golders Green Forum, chaired by Cllr Graham Old, there was a more detailed discussion about the allowances on which Cllr Old seemed most uncomfortable. Not only did he criticise the cabinet system that prevents councillors debating such matters in committee before they ever get to Council but he also described Kate Salinger who abstained, as a "heroine". Whilst it was refreshing to see a conservative councillor so contrite, it was also noted that perhaps he should have been a bit more outspoken at the Council meeting. At least we did get a debate which was more than we got at the Chipping Barnet Forum but it merely served to show how wide the gulf is between the council and the people they are supposed to represent.
hear hear Johnny: for a detailed report on the meeting last night visit my blog ...
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