Agenda and minutes

Chair of the Council and Head of Democratic Services to present.

The Council received a presentation on how the meeting would run, including processes and etiquette.

To approve as a correct record and sign the minutes of the meeting held on 23 July 2020.

The Chair of the Council MOVED and it was duly SECONDED that the minutes of the meeting held on 23 July be signed as a correct record.

The Motion was put to the vote and declared CARRIED.

The Chair of the Council welcomed Mr Ray Hodgins, co-opted member of the Council’s Standards Committee who was attending the meeting to monitor compliance with the Council’s ethical framework.

The Chair of the Council then reported on a statement issued by the Leader of the Council in response to the Prime Minister’s announcement of new national Covid-19 restrictions, which highlighted the importance of adhering to the new rules now in order to avoid more severe restrictions being imposed in the future.

He further expressed sympathy with households and families who were being asked to limit their contact with each other again and also the impact of more restrictions on the local economy, but the Council would continue to help and support communities and businesses where it could.

The Chair further highlighted the opportunities for both staff and Members to talk further about wellbeing and the ways in which the Council could support them in their roles.

The Chair announced that at the ICE South West Civil Engineering Awards 2020, the winner of the Judges' Special Award and Project Under £3million (new build) award was the A38 Stover Country Park Wetlands project. This reedbed system was created to stop pollutants from the A38 ending up in the lake and the Chair congratulated all those involved.

He relayed more good news from the Apprentice and Employer Awards 2020, with the Council winning the Large Employer of the Year, in relation to the Council's approach to apprenticeships, which of course was all about providing high quality training and employment opportunities - with a 76% retention rate of apprentices gaining employment in the Council.

Finally, he added his congratulations to Cleo Gatting as the winner of the Construction - Technical & Professional Apprentice of the Year at the Virtual Exeter College Apprentice and Employer awards 2020. Cleo received her award as she had produced work of the highest standard and was always keen to give her best in all projects she worked on.

There was no item raised as a matter of urgency.

Petitions, Questions or Representations from Members of the public in line with the Council’s Petitions and Public Participation Schemes.

The Leader received a Petition from Councillor Joan Fletcher from Ugborough Parish Council asking the Council to produce a plan for the B3196 pinch points and that funding be provided to improve the highway and road widening at various locations. It contained just over 300 signatures. Councillor Joan Fletcher addressed the Council on the aims of the Petition.

A further petition had been submitted by Hilda Sterry containing approximately 1000 signatures regarding the closure under the bridge in Vaughan Road, Exeter. Mrs Sterry was not present at the meeting and the Chair read out her previously submitted statement including the impact of the closure and asking the Council to reconsider.

There was no question from a Member of the public.

In accordance with the Council's Public Participation Rules, the Council received and acknowledged oral representations made by Sandra Sanena, Lizzie Kilbride, Sue Errington and Tsara Smith all speaking in support of the Black Lives Matter motion on the agenda.

The Leader was presented by Councillor Chugg, on behalf of Braunton Parish Council and Knowle Community Group's (KCG), with a petition containing 341 signatures regarding speeding vehicles on the A361, requesting that interventions be implemented to slow vehicles down along this stretch of road.  The petition could be viewed at http://chng.it/4LfjS4Rf. 

[NB: The relevant Head of Service would be asked to respond direct to the petitioner on the issues raised, within 15 days, letting them know how long it would take to undertake the requested review in line with the Council’s Petition Scheme.

Answers to questions from Members of the Council pursuant to Standing Order 17.

In accordance with the Council’s Procedure Rules, the Leader and relevant Cabinet Members provided written responses to nine questions submitted by Members of the Council relating to;

·         fines issued on the South Devon Highway as a consequence of speeding, how many fines had been paid and the sum of money generated;

·         an update on the settlement of local residents’ compensation claims;

·         the option of Training Courses to speeding offenders, specifically speeding offenders on the South Devon Highway;

·         remote meetings, the future and savings in terms of expenses claims;

·         low carbon advertising policy, Council involvement in certain types of advertising and any restrictions;

·         flash flooding in Barnstaple and the associated report;

·         DCC involvement in test and trace in the County and associated press release;

·         the effect of Covid-19 on Devon Schools, including attendance by pupils and staff affected by Covid-19 cases; and

·         active travel opportunities and improvement of non-vehicular networks, additional links and the seeking of additional funds

The Leader and relevant Cabinet Members also responded orally, as appropriate, to any supplementary questions arising therefrom.

(A copy of the questions and answers are appended to the minutes and any supplementary questions and answers may be observed through the webcast of this meeting)

The Leader of the Council to move.

(a)   note that the proposed renewal of the current shared Trading Standards Service arrangement with Somerset County Council and Torbay Council for a ten-year period staring from 1 April 2021 has been be approved by Cabinet;

(b)   note that the proposed extension of the current shared service arrangement with Somerset County Council and Torbay Council for delivery of the Trading Standards Service to also include Plymouth City Council was  also approved;

(c)   that, accordingly, Council approve the discharge of Plymouth City Council’s Trading Standards functions as identified in paragraph 4 and Appendix 1 of this Report in accordance with s101 of the Local Government Act 1972 to be delegated to Devon County Council, recognising and accepting also

(i) responsibility for the specific delegations made to Devon County Council to support the transfer of the Relevant Functions, and

(ii) the need to extend the membership of the Trading Standards Joint Service Review Panel to include representatives of Plymouth City Council; and

(d)   further note that the Head of Economy, Enterprise & Skills has been authorised to finalise and agree / amend the share service agreements with Somerset County Council, Plymouth City Council, and Torbay Council, and any other appropriate legal and financial agreements with Somerset County Council, Plymouth City Council, and Torbay Council in order for the proposed services to be provided by Devon County Council.

The Leader of the Council MOVED and Councillor McInnes SECONDED that the Council;  

(a)   note that the proposed renewal of the current shared Trading Standards Service arrangement with Somerset County Council and Torbay Council for a ten-year period staring from 1 April 2021 has been be approved by Cabinet;

(b)   note that the proposed extension of the current shared service arrangement with Somerset County Council and Torbay Council for delivery of the Trading Standards Service to also include Plymouth City Council was also approved;

(c)   approve the discharge of Plymouth City Council’s Trading Standards functions as identified in paragraph 4 and Appendix 1 of this Report in accordance with s101 of the Local Government Act 1972 to be delegated to Devon County Council, recognising and accepting also

(i) responsibility for the specific delegations made to Devon County Council to support the transfer of the Relevant Functions, and

(ii) the need to extend the membership of the Trading Standards Joint Service Review Panel to include representatives of Plymouth City Council; and

(d)   further note that the Head of Economy, Enterprise & Skills has been authorised to finalise and agree / amend the share service agreements with Somerset County Council, Plymouth City Council, and Torbay Council, and any other appropriate legal and financial agreements with Somerset County Council, Plymouth City Council, and Torbay Council in order for the proposed services to be provided by Devon County Council.

The Motion was put to the vote and carried CARRIED.

To consider reports from Cabinet Members.

The Council received reports from the Leader and relevant Cabinet Members on specific issues upon which they had been asked to comment, as set out below:

(a)       Policy, Corporate, Resources and Asset Management

Councillor Hart circulated a Report, as requested by Councillor Shaw on the threats to Devon from the end of the Brexit transition period, especially in the absence of a EU trade deal, and any preparations to mitigate these.

The Leader highlighted that negotiations were ongoing between the UK and the EU, but the exact opportunities and impacts on businesses remained unknown. The Council had undertaken some economic modelling, working with Oxford Economics to consider the current economic impact from COVID-19. It was thought that a number of companies remained unprepared for a no deal exit, with the focus for many being upon addressing the consequences of COVID-19.

However, since 2016 the Heart of the South West Economic Resilience and Opportunities Group, chaired by Phil Norrey, had met with Whitehall officials fortnightly to explore and lobby on issues relating to Brexit and more recently EU transition.  The Group had also asked Government to share its plans for winter preparedness including the COVID response and recovery and EU Transition so the Council could update its planning assumptions and risk register.  The Devon and Cornwall Local Resilience Forum was also standing up arrangements to plan and mitigate impacts from EU Transition across Devon and Cornwall but, like the Council, was awaiting information from Government as to the areas of risk.

The Leader also responded to questions on grants and businesses, the lack of national clarity, EU funding and food security.

(b)       Community, Public Health, Transportation and Environment

Councillor Croad circulated a Report, as requested by Councillor Hannaford, on the Governments new COVID Marshall scheme and further reported on progress with the 10-point green action plan motion as requested by Councillor Wright.

In response to the announcement of COVID wardens, the Cabinet Member’s Report said that the detail behind the announcement was still awaited and it was therefore difficult to respond to the detailed questions (how many the DCC area would have, locations and the Governance and reporting structures). He would seek to develop answers with District Council and Police colleagues, as well as other community safety partners.

In relation to the 10-point green action plan, the Environmental Performance Board had considered how the issues raised might be addressed through changes or additions to the Council’s own suite of environmental action plans.  As a result of this, the Board identified options for enhanced action in relation to several environmentally related topics, which were detailed in the Appendix to the Report.

To ensure ongoing accountability and transparency on progress, the Cabinet Member had published the highlight reports presented to each meeting of the Environmental Performance Board via the Environmental Policy web pages https://www.devon.gov.uk/environment/environmental-policy, which would   remain the main approach to reporting on progress.

The Cabinet Member added the caveat that in reviewing progress, the huge demands of dealing with the pandemic  ...  view the full minutes text for item 308.

To receive and approve the Minutes of the under mentioned Committees

The Chair of the Council MOVED and it was duly SECONDED that the Minutes of the under-mentioned meetings of Committees be adopted.

(a) Audit Committee - 28 July 2020

(b) Appointments, Remuneration and Chief Officer Conduct Committee - 30

July 2020 and 28 September 2020 including approval of the appointment of the Director of Public Health at minute 64 and commencement of the recruitment for a permanent appointment of a Head of Service for Children’s Social Care at minute 67.

(c) Appeals Committee - 7 September 2020

(d) Procedures Committee - 15 September 2020 including approval of Minute 89 (the process for moving committee minutes at Council) and Minute 90 (LGA policy Boards and Members Allowances) and the associated amendments to the Constitution.

(e) Investment and Pension Fund Committee - 18 September 2020

(f) Development Management Committee - 23 September 2020 including approval of minute 106 relating to the Waste review   

(h) Children's Scrutiny Committee - 8 September 2020

(i) Health and Adult Care Scrutiny Committee - 10 September 2020

(j) Corporate Infrastructure and Regulatory Services Scrutiny Committee - 17

September 2020

The Motion was put to the vote and declared CARRIED.

To receive and consider the recommendations of the Cabinet (Minute 543b) as an amendment to the following Notice of Motion submitted previously to the Council by Councillor Connett and referred thereto in accordance with Standing Order 8(2), namely 

This notice of motion acknowledges the current situation facing underrepresented groups in Devon and seeks to support the work that is taking place UK wide to tackle racism and discrimination. Statistical data shows that individuals from Black Asian & Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities are underrepresented at every level in UK society, facing issues around social and economic mobility, and educational attainment, particularly affected by implicit racial bias and institutional racism.

Council recognises the contributions of individuals from BAME communities in society, business, and infrastructure across Devon both now and historically, and will not shy away from work which seeks to remove barriers, tackle prejudice and address inequality. 

In doing so the council calls for:

·       The review of Devon County Council's HR and Equalities practices and the inclusion of regular training for councillors and staff, to ensure the needs of under-represented groups are met through addressing poverty and encouraging economic and social mobility.

·       Work with Schools, Academies, Trusts and educationalists in Devon to explore the prospect of making changes the curriculum to include BAME experiences, contributions, and the FACTs of History, throughout the year.

·       Explore the possibility of an education transformation project in conjunction with schools that creates a suite of curriculum resources specific to Devon's history.

·       Lobby Government to invest and resource changes to the curriculum across the UK through the support of organisations such as The Black Curriculum and via associated campaigns.

·       An advisory board put in place linked to the Equality Impact Assessment for the Covid-19 recovery plan, to connect the experiences of BAME individuals within the community with the aim of driving forward positive change.

·       Encourage County-based organisations to contribute to diversity and social mobility through reviewing the Councillor Locality Grant criteria to ensure it can include (but not exclusively); projects that contribute to addressing inequalities and raising educational attainment within under-represented groups.

Having had regard to the aforementioned, any factual briefing/position statement on the matter set out in Report (CSO/20/14) and other suggestions or alternatives considered at that meeting the Cabinet subsequently resolved:

That Council be recommended to:

(a) Support current and planned activities which help to:

(i) Enable everyone in Devon to participate in, and contribute, to its society, economy, and communities;

(ii) Remove barriers; and

(iii)Tackle prejudice and inequalities.

(b) Request a peer challenge, based on the LGA “Local Government Equality Framework’.

(c) Encourage all mechanisms that would increase of the diversity of Councillors.

(d) Support all Members to continue to actively engage with BAME people and organisations;

(e) Provides advice and support to schools on how they can support students understanding of BAME experiences, their history and contributions; and

(f) Notes that Members’ Locality Budget Fund can be used to support the diverse needs of all local communities.

Pursuant to County Council Minute 297 of 23 July 2020 relating to the Notice of Motion set out below as previously submitted and formally moved and seconded by Councillor Connett that;

This notice of motion acknowledges the current situation facing underrepresented groups in Devon and seeks to support the work that is taking place UK wide to tackle racism and discrimination. Statistical data shows that individuals from Black Asian & Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities are underrepresented at every level in UK society, facing issues around social and economic mobility, and educational attainment, particularly affected by implicit racial bias and institutional racism.

Council recognises the contributions of individuals from BAME communities in society, business, and infrastructure across Devon both now and historically, and will not shy away from work which seeks to remove barriers, tackle prejudice and address inequality. 

In doing so the council calls for:

·         The review of Devon County Council's HR and Equalities practices and the inclusion of regular training for councillors and staff, to ensure the needs of under-represented groups are met through addressing poverty and encouraging economic and social mobility.

·         Work with Schools, Academies, Trusts and educationalists in Devon to explore the prospect of making changes the curriculum to include BAME experiences, contributions, and the FACTs of History, throughout the year.

·         Explore the possibility of an education transformation project in conjunction with schools that creates a suite of curriculum resources specific to Devon's history.

·         Lobby Government to invest and resource changes to the curriculum across the UK through the support of organisations such as The Black Curriculum and via associated campaigns.

·         An advisory board put in place linked to the Equality Impact Assessment for the Covid-19 recovery plan, to connect the experiences of BAME individuals within the community with the aim of driving forward positive change.

·         Encourage County-based organisations to contribute to diversity and social mobility through reviewing the Councillor Locality Grant criteria to ensure it can include (but not exclusively); projects that contribute to addressing inequalities and raising educational attainment within under-represented groups.

and having had regard to the advice of the Cabinet set out in Minute 543(b) of 9 September 2020:

Councillor Hart MOVED and Councillor McInnes SECONDED that the Cabinet’s advice be accepted and that spirit of the Notice of Motion be endorsed and the course of action as outlined below be taken.

That Council:

(a)  Support current and planned activities which help to:

(i) Enable everyone in Devon to participate in, and contribute, to its society, economy, and communities;

(ii) Remove barriers; and

(iii)Tackle prejudice and inequalities.

(b) Request a peer challenge, based on the LGA “Local Government Equality Framework’.

(c) Encourage all mechanisms that would increase of the diversity of Councillors.

(d) Support all Members to continue to actively engage with BAME people and organisations;

(e) Provides advice and support to schools on how they can support students understanding of BAME experiences, their history and contributions; and

(f) Notes that Members’ Locality Budget Fund can be used to support the diverse needs of  ...  view the full minutes text for item 310.

To receive and consider the recommendations of the Cabinet (Minute 543c) as an amendment to the following Notice of Motion submitted previously to the Council by Councillor Wright and referred thereto in accordance with Standing Order 8(2), namely 

This Council welcomes the peaceful protests against the murder of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer, including those organised in Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, Exeter and Plymouth - and the way these have brought to light how this much of this country's wealth was built on slavery and other racial oppression.

This Council acknowledges the recent further pain caused to the BAME community, by the Windrush Scandal.

This Council acknowledges too, that the only way this deep historical wound can be healed is by people in high profile positions (especially politicians) proving that they are listening with compassion to the BAME community – and taking necessary action.

This Council resolves to pledge its support for the Black Lives Matter campaign by:

·     taking a lead among public organisations in Devon to seek out opportunities to promote and celebrate the work in Devon by BAME people, both in the past and currently.

·     Inviting every Devon County Councillor to:

1. show leadership and support for people of colour in Devon, individually supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, using whichever public platform they feel most comfortable with;

2. speak with people from the BAME community in their wards to determine what are the issues of concern for them - and take the necessary steps to resolve those issues;

·     Writing to the Secretary of State for Education urging him to:

3. review the primary school, GCSE and A Level national curriculum with a view to ensuring that the historical record of the British Empire is treated in a way which fully takes account of slavery, the actions and views of historical figures and other oppressive experiences of BAME people, many of whose descendants are now part of our community.

4. show compassion and understanding by starting a national debate led by the BAME community, which seeks to define racism, the impacts of it in today’s society - and demonstrate how we can all help people of colour feel fully included and welcomed in the UK (this could be part of the current government review).

5. identify a Cabinet minister champion for the BAME community.

·     inviting Devon town/parish/city councils to review any landmarks, street names or statues that implicitly celebrate slavery, with a view to clarifying their history, such as the historical plaque in Exmouth for slave trader, John Colleton, who also has three streets named after him in Exeter.

NB. Motion was created with students at The Kings School, especially young BAME people.

Having had regard to the aforementioned, any factual briefing/position statement on the matter set out in Report (CSO/20/14) and other suggestions or alternatives considered at that meeting the Cabinet subsequently resolved:

That Council be recommended to:

(a)  Support Members to continue to find and take opportunities to promote and celebrate the  ...  view the full agenda text for item 311.

Pursuant to County Council Minute 298 of 23 July 2020 relating to the Notice of Motion set out below as previously submitted and formally moved and seconded by Councillor Wright that: 

This Council welcomes the peaceful protests against the murder of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer, including those organised in Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, Exeter and Plymouth - and the way these have brought to light how this much of this country's wealth was built on slavery and other racial oppression.

This Council acknowledges the recent further pain caused to the BAME community, by the Windrush Scandal.

This Council acknowledges too, that the only way this deep historical wound can be healed is by people in high profile positions (especially politicians) proving that they are listening with compassion to the BAME community – and taking necessary action.

This Council resolves to pledge its support for the Black Lives Matter campaign by:

·      taking a lead among public organisations in Devon to seek out opportunities to promote and celebrate the work in Devon by BAME people, both in the past and currently.

·      Inviting every Devon County Councillor to:

1. show leadership and support for people of colour in Devon, individually supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, using whichever public platform they feel most comfortable with;

2. speak with people from the BAME community in their wards to determine what are the issues of concern for them - and take the necessary steps to resolve those issues;

·      Writing to the Secretary of State for Education urging him to:

3. review the primary school, GCSE and A Level national curriculum with a view to ensuring that the historical record of the British Empire is treated in a way which fully takes account of slavery, the actions and views of historical figures and other oppressive experiences of BAME people, many of whose descendants are now part of our community.

4. show compassion and understanding by starting a national debate led by the BAME community, which seeks to define racism, the impacts of it in today’s society - and demonstrate how we can all help people of colour feel fully included and welcomed in the UK (this could be part of the current government review).

5. identify a Cabinet minister champion for the BAME community.

·      inviting Devon town/parish/city councils to review any landmarks, street names or statues that implicitly celebrate slavery, with a view to clarifying their history, such as the historical plaque in Exmouth for slave trader, John Colleton, who also has three streets named after him in Exeter.

NB. Motion was created with students at The Kings School, especially young BAME people.

and having had regard to the advice of the Cabinet set out in Minute 453(c) of 9 September 2020:

Councillor Hart MOVED and Councillor McInnes SECONDED that the Cabinet’s advice be accepted and that spirit of the Notice of Motion be endorsed and the following actions be approved.

That Council:

(a)  Support Members to continue to find and take opportunities  ...  view the full minutes text for item 311.

To receive and consider the recommendations of the Cabinet (Minute 543d) as an amendment to the following Notice of Motion submitted previously to the Council by Councillor Hannaford and referred thereto in accordance with Standing Order 8(2), namely 

Council Notes

Local Councils have seen a huge reduction of £16 billion in core grant from central Government over the last 10 years and this is now a critical tipping point. 

In spite of this, in the face of the global pandemic, councils including Devon County Council have been proactively working with the NHS, Public Health England , blue light services , supporting forums, local community volunteers, and other agencies, through the Local Resilience Forum to keep people safe from Covid19.

DCC has brought and distributed personal protective equipment (PPE), and helped set up logistical operations with others, to deliver medicine and food across wide geographies, and make sure vulnerable and older people receive the care and support they need, and crucially keep our children safe.

We have yet to work through the long term impacts that this will have on Devon’s economy, schools,  health services , and the most vulnerable people – Devon’s 20% poorest communities, those with long term disabilities and mental health issues, and our black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities.

In Devon we are now facing unprecedented levels of financial burdens unless the costs of dealing with the pandemic are properly reimbursed by central government.

Council Believes

A new relationship must emerge between national, regional and local government that is based on central government’s genuine belief that local is best. Our local response to the pandemic has demonstrated only local government working with its partners has the intimate understanding of our communities, places, people and services to do this effectively.

Let this be the ‘new normal’ a relationship between local and central government roles.

DCC and our local government partners must have the finance and ability to fully respond in this new environment and to the social, educational, public health and economic impacts of COVID-19, to find effective and efficient local solutions.

Councils have a significant opportunity and role to do things differently now in developing;

·       a sustainable net zero carbon economy working with the South West (HotSW) Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and business leaders

·       reliable broadband to the whole of Devon

·       sustainable transport and enhancing our cycling and walking infrastructure

·       an integrated social and health care system

·       agile and flexible working

·       skills for all ages; and

·       significant investment in the supply of social and affordable housing

Council Resolves

Devon County Council’s approach for future actions must not only incorporate these seven key needs outlined but also seek more devolved powers. They must do this through representation to central government and our local members of parliament to acquire the necessary legislative and budgetary changes. Local government could then provide greater community leadership so that here in Devon we can better serve our people.

Having had regard to the aforementioned, any factual briefing/position statement on the matter set  ...  view the full agenda text for item 312.

Pursuant to County Council Minute 299 of 23 July 2020 relating to the Notice of Motion set out below as previously submitted and formally moved and seconded by Councillor Hannaford that: 

Council Notes

Local Councils have seen a huge reduction of £16 billion in core grant from central Government over the last 10 years and this is now a critical tipping point. 

In spite of this, in the face of the global pandemic, councils including Devon County Council have been proactively working with the NHS, Public Health England , blue light services , supporting forums, local community volunteers, and other agencies, through the Local Resilience Forum to keep people safe from Covid19.

DCC has brought and distributed personal protective equipment (PPE), and helped set up logistical operations with others, to deliver medicine and food across wide geographies, and make sure vulnerable and older people receive the care and support they need, and crucially keep our children safe.

We have yet to work through the long term impacts that this will have on Devon’s economy, schools,  health services , and the most vulnerable people – Devon’s 20% poorest communities, those with long term disabilities and mental health issues, and our black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities.

In Devon we are now facing unprecedented levels of financial burdens unless the costs of dealing with the pandemic are properly reimbursed by central government.

Council Believes

A new relationship must emerge between national, regional and local government that is based on central government’s genuine belief that local is best. Our local response to the pandemic has demonstrated only local government working with its partners has the intimate understanding of our communities, places, people and services to do this effectively.

Let this be the ‘new normal’ a relationship between local and central government roles.

DCC and our local government partners must have the finance and ability to fully respond in this new environment and to the social, educational, public health and economic impacts of COVID-19, to find effective and efficient local solutions.

Councils have a significant opportunity and role to do things differently now in developing;

·         a sustainable net zero carbon economy working with the South West (HotSW) Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and business leaders

·         reliable broadband to the whole of Devon

·         sustainable transport and enhancing our cycling and walking infrastructure

·         an integrated social and health care system

·         agile and flexible working

·         skills for all ages; and

·         significant investment in the supply of social and affordable housing

Council Resolves

Devon County Council’s approach for future actions must not only incorporate these seven key needs outlined but also seek more devolved powers. They must do this through representation to central government and our local members of parliament to acquire the necessary legislative and budgetary changes. Local government could then provide greater community leadership so that here in Devon we can better serve our people.

and having had regard to the advice of the Cabinet set out in Minute 453(d) of 9 September 2020:

Councillor Hart  ...  view the full minutes text for item 312.

Councillor Aves to move:

This council notes:

That Trussell Trust research shows three million children in the UK are at risk of hunger during the school holidays.

The Trussell Trust anticipates that ending furlough in October would trigger a rise in foodbank use of at least 61%.

Foodbank use has already dramatically increased. The Independent Food Aid Network recorded a 59% increase in demand for emergency food support between February and March 2020.

The Covid-19 emergency has exposed major health inequalities across the country with children and families suffering disproportionately.

Between March and August 2020 there has already been a 115% increase in Universal Credit claimants nationally and in Devon even greater, 165% for all claimants and 173% for 16-24 year olds.

That Government has committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which have an international and domestic commitment to ending hunger by 2030.       

That Government has asked Henry Dimbleby to lead on producing a National Food Strategy.

This council believes:

No one in the UK should go hungry, not least children.

Food justice is about taking action on the causes of hunger such as affordability and availability of good nutritious food.

That the stopping of furlough payments will lead to further unemployment and more food poverty as a result.

Local councils, schools and communities play a key role in supporting those that are experiencing food poverty during the Covid-19 pandemic and that should be recognised.

The council resolves to:

1. Nominate an existing cabinet member to take on responsibility for Food Justice.

2. Commit to setting up a food partnership to work with district councils and other partners to develop a Food Action Plan.

3. Re-double its efforts to increase Free School Meal sign ups to ensure that all those who are entitled to them or need them, receive them.

4. Encourage Scrutiny to look at the extent of food poverty – map it and understand what is going on across the County.

5. Write in association with Devon MPs, to encourage Government to:

a) commit to legislate the existing commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals to end hunger by 2030;

b) commit funding in the next spending review for the five Sustain policies to protect children's health and increase access to nutritious food that is culturally appropriate, because the National Food Strategy will take a year to be adopted;

c) support our local food production and suppliers, our farming and fishing industries in Devon, to protect workers jobs so that our food supplies are sustained throughout the pandemic and any shortages or delays experienced during the EU Brexit;

d) increase Universal Credit so people can buy enough food;

e) immediately act to help those most affected.

Councillor Aves MOVED and Councillor Ackland SECONDED

This Council notes:

That Trussell Trust research shows three million children in the UK are at risk of hunger during the school holidays.

The Trussell Trust anticipates that ending furlough in October would trigger a rise in foodbank use of at least 61%.

Foodbank use has already dramatically increased. The Independent Food Aid Network recorded a 59% increase in demand for emergency food support between February and March 2020.

The Covid-19 emergency has exposed major health inequalities across the country with children and families suffering disproportionately.

Between March and August 2020 there has already been a 115% increase in Universal Credit claimants nationally and in Devon even greater, 165% for all claimants and 173% for 16-24 year olds.

That Government has committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which have an international and domestic commitment to ending hunger by 2030.

That Government has asked Henry Dimbleby to lead on producing a National Food Strategy.

This Council believes:

No one in the UK should go hungry, not least children.

Food justice is about taking action on the causes of hunger such as affordability and availability of good nutritious food.

That the stopping of furlough payments will lead to further unemployment and more food poverty as a result.

Local councils, schools and communities play a key role in supporting those that are experiencing food poverty during the Covid-19 pandemic and that should be recognised.

The Council resolves to:

1. Nominate an existing cabinet member to take on responsibility for Food Justice.

2. Commit to setting up a food partnership to work with district councils and other partners to develop a Food Action Plan.

3. Re-double its efforts to increase Free School Meal sign ups to ensure that all those who are entitled to them or need them, receive them.

4. Encourage Scrutiny to look at the extent of food poverty – map it and understand what is going on across the County.

5. Write in association with Devon MPs, to encourage Government to:

a) commit to legislate the existing commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals to end hunger by 2030;

b) commit funding in the next spending review for the five Sustain policies to protect children's health and increase access to nutritious food that is culturally appropriate, because the National Food Strategy will take a year to be adopted;

c) support our local food production and suppliers, our farming and fishing industries in Devon, to protect workers jobs so that our food supplies are sustained throughout the pandemic and any shortages or delays experienced during the EU Brexit;

d) increase Universal Credit so people can buy enough food;

e) immediately act to help those most affected.

In accordance with Standing Order 6(6) the Notice of Motion was referred, without discussion, to the Cabinet for consideration.

Councillor Atkinson to move:

The strength of the UK and Devon economy and GDP depends in the major part on the recovery of the service sectors as we are principally a service led economy. Though we also have manufacturing and production industries nationally and in Devon.  It is acknowledged that our economy has contracted as a result of the pandemic and the impending Exit from the EU. 

The EU has set up a £750bn Euro coronavirus pandemic recovery fund and long-term spending plans to provide grants to kick start Europe’s recovery from the pandemic particularly investing in green industry and infrastructure and to target resources to recovery, resilience and transformation.

To date only £20 million of new funding to help small and medium sized businesses across England to get back on track after the pandemic has been announced  by the government and this means access only to grants of between £1,000 - £5,000 for new equipment and technology and specialist advice. No funding has been allocated to the Shared Prosperity Fund to replace the loss of EU Structural Funds after Brexit.

This council will write to the government and request it:

·       to ensure that there are no new austerity measures like those introduced in 2010 after the banking crisis;

·       to set up a similar well-funded fund proportionate to the size of this country to provide grants to support Britain and Devon’s economic recovery resilience and transformation;

·       to make grants available out of the fund to invest in and support:

-       Devon’s local food and drink production and suppliers, our farming and fishing industries in Devon, so as to protect jobs so that our food supplies are sustained throughout the pandemic and any shortages or delays experienced during the exit from the EU;

-       Devon’s service sectors such as retail hospitality tourism education health human services information technology finance arts and culture;

-       Devon’s shipbuilding and engineering and environmental science sectors

-       Devon’s Green economy and sustainable energy production and transport systems and to support local industry to achieve net zero carbon climate change targets set by the Paris Agreement

-       Devon’s blue economy - its marine environment which is aiming to become more sustainable;

-       New infrastructure to support sustainable green and blue growth.

Councillor Atkinson MOVED, with the consent of the Council an amended Motion (removed wording shown as a strikethrough below) and Councillor Whitton SECONDED;

The strength of the UK and Devon economy and GDP depends in the major part on the recovery of the service sectors as we are principally a service led economy. Though we also have manufacturing and production industries nationally and in Devon.  It is acknowledged that our economy has contracted as a result of the pandemic. and the impending Exit from the EU. 

The EU has set up a £750bn Euro coronavirus pandemic recovery fund and long-term spending plans to provide grants to kick start Europe’s recovery from the pandemic particularly investing in green industry and infrastructure and to target resources to recovery, resilience and transformation.

To date only £20 million of new funding to help small and medium sized businesses across England to get back on track after the pandemic has been announced  by the government and this means access only to grants of between £1,000 - £5,000 for new equipment and technology and specialist advice. No funding has been allocated to the Shared Prosperity Fund to replace the loss of EU Structural Funds after Brexit.

This council will write to the government and request it:

·         to ensure that there are no new austerity measures like those introduced in 2010 after the banking crisis;

·         to set up a similar well-funded fund proportionate to the size of this country to provide grants to support Britain and Devon’s economic recovery resilience and transformation;

·         to make grants available out of the fund to invest in and support:

-       Devon’s local food and drink production and suppliers, our farming and fishing industries in Devon, so as to protect jobs so that our food supplies are sustained throughout the pandemic and any shortages or delays experienced during the exit from the EU;

-       Devon’s service sectors such as retail hospitality tourism education health human services information technology finance arts and culture;

-       Devon’s shipbuilding and engineering and environmental science sectors

-       Devon’s Green economy and sustainable energy production and transport systems and to support local industry to achieve net zero carbon climate change targets set by the Paris Agreement

-       Devon’s blue economy - its marine environment which is aiming to become more sustainable;

-       New infrastructure to support sustainable green and blue growth.

In accordance with Standing Order 6(6) the Notice of Motion was referred, without discussion, to the Cabinet for consideration.

Councillor Atkinson to move:

Since the abolition of the Regional Development Agency and the establishment of local LEPS economic development in the region has become fragmented.  Control of public funds for economic development rest with central government on a piecemeal basis.

At the recent AGM of the Heart of the South West LEP the chair lamented that there has been no rural productivity deal for the South West and that the South West does not garner the level of support we need from the government.  He cited that attempts to deal with this by establishing the Great South West with its prospectus had failed to get the support of government.

The council agrees to write to the government to ask it to support the Great South West Initiative and in particular:

·       Give formal recognition and

·       Provide an identified Minister to link into Government.

·       Provide at the very least £2million requested over three years to move forward at pace and enable it to develop full business cases across the range of topics covered in its prospectus though arguably now more is required sooner to support the recovery of the economy after the impact of the pandemic

·       Support an enhanced export and investment hub.

·       Recognition to a Great South West Tourism Zone; and an

·       Agreement to create a rural productivity deal.

Councillor Atkinson MOVED and Councillor Ackland SECONDED;

Since the abolition of the Regional Development Agency and the establishment of local LEPS economic development in the region has become fragmented.  Control of public funds for economic development rest with central government on a piecemeal basis.

At the recent AGM of the Heart of the South West LEP the chair lamented that there has been no rural productivity deal for the South West and that the South West does not garner the level of support we need from the government.  He cited that attempts to deal with this by establishing the Great South West with its prospectus had failed to get the support of government.

The council agrees to write to the government to ask it to support the Great South West Initiative and in particular:

·         Give formal recognition and

·         Provide an identified Minister to link into Government.

·         Provide at the very least £2million requested over three years to move forward at pace and enable it to develop full business cases across the range of topics covered in its prospectus though arguably now more is required sooner to support the recovery of the economy after the impact of the pandemic

·         Support an enhanced export and investment hub.

·         Recognition to a Great South West Tourism Zone; and an

·         Agreement to create a rural productivity deal.

In accordance with Standing Order 6(6) the Notice of Motion was referred, without discussion, to the Cabinet for consideration.

Councillor Hannaford to move:

Council Notes With Concern

The South West region has seen some of the highest employee furlough rates in the country during the first part of the Covid-19 pandemic.   Figures show that under the Government's Job Retention Scheme, 808,900 people in the region were furloughed, with take-up in the South-West of 32.1%, being the second highest for any region in England after the West Midlands.

Retail has been the sector hardest hit by mass redundancies since the pandemic began, with manufacturing, tourism, hospitality and aviation also being badly affected.

Tens of thousands of job losses have been announced, and more mass redundancies are expected in these sectors, yet they will not receive any tailored support when the Government’s jobs-retention scheme is scheduled to finish at the end of October.  Our country is facing an unprecedented jobs crisis. The Office for Budget Responsibility predicts that, by the end of this year, nearly one in eight of the UK’s workforce will be unemployed.

The Government’s current plan to end furlough outright is over-simplistic and will only exacerbate the problem - it puts millions of jobs at risk.   Regions such as the South West, are as a direct result at risk of suffering from deepening inequality. Britain already has the worst regional inequalities in Europe, and without targeted action now, these are likely to get even worse.

Council Supports

The work of the Treasury select committee, that has called on the Government to “carefully consider” targeted extensions to its coronavirus job retention scheme, that is due to end for all sectors. The new ‘Challenges of Recovery’ report from the cross-party group of MPs, concludes that although the retention scheme “cannot persist indefinitely” the Chancellor should consider further support measures.

Commenting on the new publication, Treasury select committee chair Mel Stride MP said: “Our second report of the inquiry focuses on emerging challenges as lockdown measures are lifted. One such challenge is to target assistance effectively at those businesses and individuals who need it. The Chancellor should carefully consider targeted extensions to the coronavirus job retention scheme and explain his conclusions.”

The new report is the second by the committee on the economic impacts of Covid-19. The first identified gaps in the Government’s financial schemes that left at least one million people unsupported.

The proposals set out in the earlier June report were ignored, which led the Treasury select committee to accuse the Government of “turning its back on those who are suffering”.

The newly released report also says the Government should extend reforms to Universal Credit past their one-year cut-off, support small businesses struggling with debt and define “levelling up”.

Although the Prime Minister claims to have made reducing regional inequalities a central aim of his administration, the committee accuses his ‘levelling up‘ promise of being merely an “empty slogan”.

The Chair Mel Stride MP added: “The key will be assisting those businesses who, with additional support, can come through the crisis as sustainable enterprises, rather than focusing on those  ...  view the full agenda text for item 316.

Councillor Hannaford MOVED and Councillor Whitton SECONDED;

Council Notes With Concern

The South West region has seen some of the highest employee furlough rates in the country during the first part of the Covid-19 pandemic.   Figures show that under the Government's Job Retention Scheme, 808,900 people in the region were furloughed, with take-up in the South-West of 32.1%, being the second highest for any region in England after the West Midlands.

Retail has been the sector hardest hit by mass redundancies since the pandemic began, with manufacturing, tourism, hospitality and aviation also being badly affected.

Tens of thousands of job losses have been announced, and more mass redundancies are expected in these sectors, yet they will not receive any tailored support when the Government’s jobs-retention scheme is scheduled to finish at the end of October.  Our country is facing an unprecedented jobs crisis. The Office for Budget Responsibility predicts that, by the end of this year, nearly one in eight of the UK’s workforce will be unemployed.

The Government’s current plan to end furlough outright is over-simplistic and will only exacerbate the problem - it puts millions of jobs at risk.   Regions such as the South West, are as a direct result at risk of suffering from deepening inequality. Britain already has the worst regional inequalities in Europe, and without targeted action now, these are likely to get even worse.

Council Supports

The work of the Treasury select committee, that has called on the Government to “carefully consider” targeted extensions to its coronavirus job retention scheme, that is due to end for all sectors. The new ‘Challenges of Recovery’ report from the cross-party group of MPs, concludes that although the retention scheme “cannot persist indefinitely” the Chancellor should consider further support measures.

Commenting on the new publication, Treasury select committee chair Mel Stride MP said: “Our second report of the inquiry focuses on emerging challenges as lockdown measures are lifted. One such challenge is to target assistance effectively at those businesses and individuals who need it. The Chancellor should carefully consider targeted extensions to the coronavirus job retention scheme and explain his conclusions.”

The new report is the second by the committee on the economic impacts of Covid-19. The first identified gaps in the Government’s financial schemes that left at least one million people unsupported.

The proposals set out in the earlier June report were ignored, which led the Treasury select committee to accuse the Government of “turning its back on those who are suffering”.

The newly released report also says the Government should extend reforms to Universal Credit past their one-year cut-off, support small businesses struggling with debt and define “levelling up”.

Although the Prime Minister claims to have made reducing regional inequalities a central aim of his administration, the committee accuses his ‘levelling up‘ promise of being merely an “empty slogan”.

The Chair Mel Stride MP added: “The key will be assisting those businesses who, with additional support, can come through the crisis as sustainable enterprises, rather  ...  view the full minutes text for item 316.