Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:42 pm on 13 March 2019.
This amendment would require the ombudsman to consider the Nolan principles when undertaking their functions in relation to a listed authority. The Nolan principles set out the behaviours expected of people who hold public office. They set out clear expectations about conduct and about how people are expected to contribute to delivering public services. The Nolan principles apply to individuals in public office, and not organisations. The principles focus on behaviour and culture, rather than processes, and are enshrined in the relevant codes of conduct for the behaviour of individuals in public service. The ombudsman investigates service failure and maladministration. The focus ensures they comment on the actions of an authority, rather than giving a view on individuals, except in the ombudsman's role in relation to the councillor code of conduct. This allows the ombudsman to retain the trust of public bodies, and the public, as an impartial, independent complaints handler and regulator. I would urge Members not to support this amendment.