The relationship between Bedford Borough Council and local parish councils, is defined by a clear framework of responsibilities and limitations. Bedford Borough Council’s involvement with parish councils is restricted to three key areas: maintaining a register of councillors’ interests, investigating complaints regarding standards of conduct, and making temporary appointments when the parish council is no longer able to act due to vacancies.
Parish councils are legal entities with the responsibility to uphold high standards of conduct among their members. While the Borough Council can investigate complaints, their powers to take direct action are limited. The Borough Council cannot remove or require the resignation of any parish councillor. Parish councillors hold their positions for their term of office unless they voluntarily resign or are legally disqualified under specific circumstances, such as certain criminal convictions.
In the case of Wixams Parish Council, Bedford Borough Council has received numerous complaints which are currently being considered by the Standards Sub-Committee. However, even if breaches of the Code of Conduct are found, the Borough Council’s role is primarily advisory. It can make public reports and recommend actions, such as further training for councillors or restricting their committee roles, but ultimately, it is up to the Parish Council to implement any measures. This system underscores the autonomy of parish councils and the limited scope of external intervention.