This committee scrutinises and takes and overview of the work of the council and its partners.  It has a particular interest in the outward engagement of the council and will focus on issues of community engagement and leadership, partnerships, environmental and economic development and improvement.

Its work is conducted through an agreed programme by none executive (backbench) councillors and it aims to:

• Be independent of the executive and form its own inquires, agendas and views allowing decision maker to held to account publicly
• Act as a critical friend
• Engage communities and allow “their voice to be heard”
• Make a difference

The committee’s work is conducted through formal committee meetings and informal panels using many forms of working including: commenting on decisions about to be taken; reviewing or suggesting policies and strategies; performance monitoring; taking evidence and conducting consultations

This committee will also reconsider decisions that have been taken by the City Executive Board and formally “called in” by members of the Council.