Local Democracy Briefing - How To Question Your Council

Hammersmith and Fulham Town Hall

Most residents of Shepherd's Bush probably don't know that it is possible to pose direct questions to our local councillors during council meetings. The system is called Public Questions to Full Council, and allows members of the public to bring their questions to our elected representatives for a full, democratic airing. So, what is it and how does it actually work in practice?

What are public questions?

Public Questions to Full Council are a way for members of the public to question their elected representatives in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham.

How does it work?
According to the official Council website, here's how Public Questions to Full Council works:

"A member of the public who lives, works, or is being educated in the Borough, may ask the Leader or a Cabinet Member one question (and one supplementary on his/her reply) on any matter relating to the discharge of the Council's functions. The question must be in writing and submitted to the Director of Law at least 7 clear working days (no later than 12 noon) before the day of the Council meeting with a relevant address in the Borough indicating whether you live, work or are being educated in the Borough."

What can the questions be about?
Anything you like, as long as it is relevant to Council business, and as long as it is not "defamatory or unsuitable in form, frivolous or derogatory". So, no sweary language then. You have been warned.

Who is the Director of Law?

The Director of Law, to whom questions should be sent, is Kayode Adewumi (email: kayode.adewumi@lbhf.gov.uk)

What does "one supplementary" mean?

It means you get to ask a second question, one that does not have to be submitted in writing in advance. So, it's a bit like Parliamentary questions at Westminster, in that the second question is generally the one that everyone is really interested in - because the reply can't be scripted in advance.

When is the next full Council meeting?
The next Full Council meeting is July 15th.

Can anyone ask questions?
Yes, as long as live, or work, or are studying in our borough.

To find out more, follow the link below:
http://www.lbhf.gov.uk/Directory/Council_and_Democracy/Committee_reports_minutes_and_agendas/Key_decisions_list/28326_Taking_part_in_the_democratic_process.asp

The Bush Telegraph offers a personal view on life in Shepherd's Bush. Read about the Campaign to Save Hammersmith Park, find out about our new Farmer's Market, see what's on at The Bush Theatre, find out the latest news on the future of Shepherd's Bush Market, and the Council's plans to upgrade the Goldhawk Road and the Uxbridge Road. If you would like to contribute a story about our neighbourhood, email us at shepherdsbushblog@gmail.com.