Formal complaint lodged over council’s decision to suspend meetings during by-election

Caerphilly County Borough Council’s decision to suspend meetings during the Senedd by-election is now subject to a formal complaint.

Independent Blackwood councillor Nigel Dix has written to the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales, challenging the authority’s decision to suspend cabinet, scrutiny and planning meetings until after polling day on October 23.

Cllr Dix said the council’s actions risk being “ultra vires” –  beyond its legal powers – and could undermine public trust in local democracy.

“Guidance makes clear that routine council business must continue during election periods. Cancelling meetings for five weeks is highly unusual and arguably undermines local democracy. Unless the council’s constitution explicitly allows this, the decision risks being unlawful,” he said.

He warned the suspension could breach statutory duties under the Local Government Act 1972, which requires councils to hold and publicise meetings, adding: “This denies councillors and the public their democratic rights to scrutiny and accountability.”

In guidance issued 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.

Interim council leader Jamie Pritchard said the authority had to “ensure a fair election process” and backed the move.