Decision details

that the County Council:

(a) recognises the actions already taken in support of the ‘debate not hate’ agenda and endorses a zero tolerance approach to abuse of both staff and Councillors;

(b) continues to develop tools and give advice that supports Councillors in relation to safety issues and tackling inappropriate behaviour, including encouraging Elected Members to use the reporting mechanism in place;

(c) works with the Police to establish a link whereby advice and support can be sought and develop a procedure document to accompany this; and

(d) write to Devon MP’s, copying in the LGA, outlining the Council’s support for the campaign and encouraging them to promote this agenda to Government and support any actions that seek to address the abuse and intimidation of those in public life.