Reappointment of independent members
We have been asked if an authority has to follow our recommendation that independent members serve no more than two terms of four years after which new members should be recruited. Some authorities are concerned that, given the current uncertainty regarding the future of the standards regime, it may be preferable to retain those who have been trained and understand their role rather than to try to recruit and appoint new members. In light of the uncertain future of the standards framework we advise that, as long as the original appointment was carried out in accordance with all the correct legal requirements at the time (e.g. approved by full council, after being openly advertised and having assessed the suitability of all the applicants) an authority can extend that term for a further period. This can only be done during the term of office of an existing independent member and by approval from full council. Once the independent member’s term has expired the full recruitment procedures must be followed again.
