Amid growing concerns both locally and nationally about the impact an increasing level of public intimidation and toxicity of debate is having on democratic processes, Hounslow Council decided to add the borough's name to the Statement on Civility in Public Life during November 2022's Borough Council meeting.
The intimidation and abuse of Councillors, in person or otherwise, undermines democracy; it can prevent elected members from representing the communities they serve, prevent individuals from standing for election and undermine public trust in democratic processes.These harmful behaviours, whether occurring towards, between or by elected members are entirely unacceptable.
Across our four nations COSLA, LGA, NILGA and WLGA commit to promoting Civility in Public Life, positive debate and resultantly supporting the wellbeing of our elected members.
Also known as 'Debate not Hate', the associated programme of work is primarily aimed at:
- articulating good standards for anyone engaging in public and political discourse;
- understanding the scale and impact of intimidation and abusive behaviour on our membership organisations, and develop recommendations for achieving positive debate and public decision-making on a local level;
- supporting members and all democratically elected local representatives in addressing intimidation and abuse, so they deliver the best on behalf of their communities.
You can find out more by clicking the links below.
