Change to "call in" process "a massive boost for democracy" say Wiltshire Lib Dems

Democracy and transparency were the winners following today's decision by Wiltshire Council to reform the method by which decisions can be "called in" by councillors in Wiltshire.

Liberal Democrats asked the council to change the system where just 13 of the 98 elected members had the power to challenge decisions made by the Cabinet or Leader. Instead they proposed a system where all backbench members of the council are able to initiate asking for a decision to be reconsidered.

Speaking following the meeting leader of the Lib Dem group, Cllr Jon Hubbard, commented "I'm delighted the council have agreed to make this change. Whilst it may appear to be a relatively minor change, it is a massive boost for democracy. The change will mean that residents across the entire council will have the opportunity to lobby their local member knowing that they can actually do something about it."