Laura Sharman 30 August 2018

Welsh local councils accused of operating in 'secretive ways'

Local councils in Wales have been accused of being 'secretive and anti-democratic' after research revealed not all provide electronic access to minutes and meetings.

Research by the Welsh Conservatives found 10% of community councils do not have websites, while two-thirds do not have access to Facebook or Twitter.

It also found only a third of those with their own website have the option of translating their pages into Welsh or English.

Shadow local government secretary, Janet Finch-Saunders, said: 'To have such a large amount of community and town councils which are in charge of public money and make decisions on behalf of society operating in such secretive ways is disgraceful and, simply put, anti-democratic.

'If Wales truly is a democratic nation, then this "behind closed doors culture" cannot be tolerated.'

Community councils are required to publish information and notices electronically under the Local Government (Democracy) Act 2013.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

School Crossing Patrol Officer

Essex County Council
Up to £13.4600 per hour
School Crossing Patrol Officer Chelmsford, Essex Part-Time, Temporary 7.5 hours per week, term-time only Up to 6 Months £13.46 PAYE / £17.24 Umbrella England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Deputy Team Manager - Older Adults Mental Health

Essex County Council
£48205 - £57988 per annum + Flexible Working, Hybrid Working
Interviews will be held in person at Rowan House, Colchester on 6th May 2026.The TeamWe are a committed team working with adults aged 65 years plus a England, Essex, Colchester
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Executive Director Place, Economy and Environment

West Northamptonshire Council
£151,368 – £161,559 (pay award pending)
West Northamptonshire is an ambitious, fast‑growing place with a bold vision for inclusive and sustainable growth. Northampton, Northamptonshire
Recuriter: West Northamptonshire Council

Assistant Director Adult Social Care Operations

Buckinghamshire Council
Circa £92,000
Are you a credible, values-driven leader with the operational grip to deliver change? Buckinghamshire
Recuriter: Buckinghamshire Council

Chief Executive

Thurrock Council
c. £200,000
Lead the change, shape the future. West Thurrock, Grays
Recuriter: Thurrock Council
Linkedin Banner