Democracy and General Purposes Committee

03/07/19

Member Agenda Item Request from Cllr David Naghi:

Protocols for Flying the Borough Council Flag at Half-Mast

Introduction:

1.   Following the recent passing of a past Mayor, I noted that the Borough Council Flag above the Town Hall flew at half-mast on the day of the funeral only. I understand that this is in accordance with the procedures set out in “Civic Ceremonial: A Handbook, History and Guide for Mayors, Councillors and Officers”.

2.   Therefore I am asking for the Protocols for past Mayors to be amended to allow for the Flag to be flown at half-mast from the day the passing is notified to the Borough Council to the day of the funeral.

3.   I also note that the Protocols make no provision for the flag to be flown at half-mast for past long serving councillors (i.e. of a minimum of two or three terms) who have not held the position of Mayor. Therefore, I am asking for the Protocols to be amended to allow for the Flag to be flown at half-mast from the day their passing is notified to the Borough Council to the day of the funeral.

4.   I also note that the Protocols make no provision for the flag to be flown at half-mast long serving officers. Therefore, I am asking for the Protocols to be amended to allow for the Flag to be flown at half-mast from the day their passing is notified to the Borough Council to the day of the funeral.

Desired Outcome:

That Officers look into the issues raised by Cllr Naghi and bring a report to the next meeting of the Democracy and General Purposes Committee, setting out the options and recommendations for Members’ consideration and decision.

Report Appendices

None