Matthew Mannion, Head of Democratic Services, introduced the regular report on declarations of gifts and hospitality. He noted that there had been nine declarations in the October to December period which was an increase on the earlier months of the pandemic. This likely reflected the slight easing of restrictions seen during that time so a few events were taking place and also, as it covered the Christmas period, a number of seasonal gifts were recorded. Finally, he welcomed that one gift to the Mayor had been donated to the Speaker’s Charity.

It was also reported that the Member Support team were currently asking all Members to review their Registers of Interest to ensure they were up to date. So far responses had been received from all bar three Councillors and four co-opted Members. The survey form being used this time included the new ‘Nil Return’ field for registering gifts and hospitality.

RESOLVED

1.    That the report be noted.