Last night’s full council meeting was quite ‘lively’, as you may have seen from our live coverage on Twitter. This in from the Cllr Bacon, Independent councillor for Brading, St Helens and Bembridge, in his own words – Ed.
Wanted debate on possible breeches in constitution
At last night’s Full Meeting of the Isle of Wight Council a motion was to be debated concerning the awarding of the PFI contract and the effect of possible connections with the controversial planning application to build an Asphalt Plant on the banks of the River Medina.
The motion brought by Independent Councillor Chris Welsford sought to highlight problems with the Council’s approach which mean that, in relation to the PFI contract and future deals, Councillors may be prevented from receiving vital information that may raise concerns over the viability and performance of such contracts.
Blocked
Instead of allowing the debate, by using an obscure procedural rule, the ruling Conservative Group halted the debate, avoided a vote and also barred Independent Councillors who had already indicated a wish to speak from being able to say anything. This included the seconder of the motion, Councillor Jonathan Bacon.
Bacon: Suggests “they have something to hide”
Councillor Bacon said “This is ridiculous. The Conservative administration cannot face having any form of sensible debate about its approach to running this council. To block debate and discussion not only suggests they are undemocratic but also that they have something to hide. It is no wonder they are now a spent political force as further illustrated by their dismal performance overall in the council chamber last night”.
To enable members of the public to form their own view, Councillor Bacon has released his notes (On The Wight will publish later – Ed) of what he wished to say at the Council meeting but was barred from doing so.
‘Dismal approach’
Councillor Bacon said “In releasing the speech I intended to make I hope it will shown just how dismal the approach of the current Conservative leadership is to both the procedure and substance of democracy and the interests and concerns of Island residents.
