The Mayor considered this matter urgent business to ensure the Council’s compliance with Section 151 of the Local Government Act 1972.

A report had been tabled for Members’ consideration.

The Council was required under Section 151 of the Local Government Act 1972 to make arrangements for the proper administration of its financial affairs and must ensure that one of its officers had responsibility for the administration of those affairs.

Following the resignation of the Director of Strategy and Corporate Services (‘the Section 151 Officer’) on 4 March 2015, and the impending return at the end of March to the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham of Chris Leslie (whom the Section 151 Officer had appointed to act in her absence), there arose a need for the Council to formally appoint a person as its Chief Finance Officer/ Section 151 Officer.

Part VIII of the Local Government Finance Act 1988 described the qualifications required for appointment and the functions and duties of the role.

The role of Finance Director (Section 151 Officer) was advertised and suitable candidates were interviewed by a Panel of Members in accordance with Part 4.7 ‘Staff Employment Procedure Rules’ of the Council’s Constitution. 

Cllr Lloyd MOVED and Cllr Kendall SECONDED the recommendation in the report and the Chief Executive advised Members of name of the person the Panel proposed to appoint.

The vote was taken on a show of hands and it was RESOLVED that the Council appoints Chris Leslie as its Chief Finance Officer (Section 151 Officer) on and with effect from 24 March 2015.

Reason for decision

The Council was required by Section 151 of the Local Government Act 1972 to make arrangements for the proper administration of its financial affairs and must ensure that one of its officers had responsibility for the administration of those affairs.

The meeting ended at 10.50pm.