The local government White Paper emphasises the importance of maintaining high standards of probity, commenting that ‘when behaviour and conduct are corrupt or improper, it erodes confidence in the democratic system', and that ‘strong and accountable local leadership requires the highest standards of conduct'.

The Government sees the way forward as being for conduct issues to be devolved ‘to the greatest extent possible' to the local level, with the Standards Board taking on a new role as a ‘light touch' strategic regulator. The paper also promises a clearer, simpler and more proportionate code, with members being able to speak on behalf of their constituents and even, in some cases, to vote where hitherto they have been prevented by the provisions in the code relating to personal and prejudicial interests. A review of the code is timely.