Council to suspend some meetings ahead of Senedd by-election

Caerphilly County Borough Council has taken the unusual step of suspending some meetings over fears councillors’ decisions could unduly influence the upcoming Senedd by-election.

In guidance to councillors, council chief executive, and returning officer for the election, Richard Edmunds wrote: “The reasoning for restrictions during the election period is not to prevent the council carrying out its normal business, but to prevent any council business during the period being used to secure electoral advantage.

“Normal and scheduled council business can and must continue during an election period… [but] publicity and council activities cannot be perceived as seeking to influence public opinion on contentious national subjects or to promote the public image of a candidate or their party.”

The pre-election period, traditionally known as “purdah” – though the term has fallen out of favour in recent years – is governed by legislation that prevents councils from making major or controversial announcements which could influence voters or be exploited by election candidates. It does not cover the postponement of council meetings.

Mr Edmunds said several scrutiny meetings, a planning meeting, and a meeting of full council will be rescheduled until after the election in the Caerphilly constituency on October 23.

Also included is a meeting of the council’s cabinet and a meeting about Blackwood Miners’ Institute, which had previously been threatened with closure.

He added: “All meetings in support of the council’s functions will continue… as long as the meetings are not used, or cannot be seen as being used, in connection with candidature for the election. Care will be taken to avoid agenda items which overlap with campaigning issues.”

Independent Blackwood councillor Nigel Dix described the move as “putting democracy on hold”, adding: “I hope no decisions will be made by officers during this period and that all decisions will be made via the democratic process.”

Cllr Jamie Pritchard, the council’s interim leader, said: “I think everybody is aware of the tragic circumstances that have led to this pre-election period. In the interests of ensuring a fair election process, the council cannot put itself in a situation where we fall foul of the strict rules.

“I think it’s highly insensitive at such a sad time for us all, that Cllr Dix’s only concern is to try and get his name in the paper.”

Plaid Cymru group leader Lindsay Whittle, his party’s candidate in the by-election, said the decision was probably “wise” and that he supported it.

Confirmed by-election candidates so far

• Gwlad – Anthony Cook
• Welsh Conservatives – Gareth Potter
• Reform UK – Llŷr Powell
• Richard Tunnicliffe – Labour
• Lindsay Whittle – Plaid Cymru