To update remote meeting protocol.

To revise the Protocol for Remote Meetings to make a number of amendments aimed at ensuring the Protocol remains in step with current practice. The revisions provide additional clarity in respect of the duties of the host, recordings of meetings, use of the Chat function to assist with the administration of the meeting, the naming regime for Members and Officers and what may happen in the event of technical difficulties.

The Head of Law and Governance consulted with the cross-party Remote Meetings Member Reference Group before revising the Protocol and there was general agreement with the changes proposed.

The revised Protocol for Remote Meetings is version 2.0.

To not revise the Protocol would risk the Council’s written procedures for remote meetings becoming dated. Practices have evolved as Members and Officers have gained more experience in operating remote meetings since the Protocol was first adopted.

Anita Bradley, Head of Law and Governance.