§ 13. Mr. Marlowasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will introduce legislation to change the position whereby co-opted members of education committees are permitted to vote.
§ Mr. MarlowAlthough most co-opted members are entirely objective in their assessments, from time to time some will have direct or indirect vested interests in the issues on which they are called to vote. In those authorities where there is a close political balance, would it not be fairer to all if that right to vote were withdrawn?
§ Mr. KingPrimarily that is a matter that concerns the standing orders of the authorities concerned. There are clear rules regarding behaviour if it is a matter of vested interests or declaration of interest.
§ Mr. CryerIs it not true that the standard of conduct in local authorities is, by and large, strictly applied and that the standard of conduct in this House is much sloppier? Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that for this House to criticise local authorities, which have improved and conducted their affairs very strictly, hardly stands examination, when the House has not troubled to debate the Royal Commission report on standards of conduct in public life, which recommended legislative changes for this place, let alone education authorities?
§ Mr. KingI hope that the standard of conduct both as regards local authorities and the House is of the highest order.