Principles of Public Life
The Parish Council has strict protocols that must be followed when it carries out its everyday business on your behalf.
Gristhorpe & Lebberston Parish Council is responsible for the area within the Parish boundary. Money is raised for the services provided through the precept, which is collected on our behalf by the District Council and is paid to your Parish Council twice-yearly.
There are very few facilities or services that we must provide by Law, but we can become involved in a wide range of activities.
Financial records are audited (by an independent auditor) on a yearly basis; should any financial rules be "broken" in any given year, it may result in the Parish Council accounts being refused by the auditor and possibly involve individual Councillors being required to repay the money illegally spent.
One of the responsibilities of the Chairman is to make sure the Parish Council does not attempt to do things that are outside their Powers.
The Seven Principles of Public Life
SELFLESSNESS
Holders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends.
INTEGRITY
Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might seek to influence them in the performance of their official duties.
OBJECTIVITY
In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.
ACCOUNTABILITY
Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.
OPENNESS
Holders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands.
HONESTY
Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest.
LEADERSHIP
Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.