Matthew Mannion, Head of Democratic Services, introduced the report on a proposed filming protocol for Council and Committee meetings. He explained that, whilst the Council welcomed the ability of the press and public to film and otherwise record Council meetings, it was important it was undertaken in a way which did not cause disruption to the meeting and that filming was restricted to those who were actively participating in the meeting.

The Committee welcomed the report and discussed its content, noting a number of issues including:

·         The problems caused when members of the press film too close or with bright flashlights.

·         The potential for intimidation if too many people are coming up to record meetings.

·         The need for officers and chairs to have a set protocol to help guide their decision making, giving confidence and ensuring consistency.

·         Whether there was an issue when Members filmed each other.

·         The need to learn from parliament and other local authorities as to the content of any protocol.

At the end of the discussion Members agreed to take the draft protocol back to their groups for discussion whilst officers undertook to further their research on options for the protocol content. It was agreed a report would return to a future meeting for final consideration.

RESOLVED

1.    That the report be noted.