Audit Wales urged to probe Flintshire Council governance
A group of opposition councillors in Flintshire has written to Audit Wales calling for a formal investigation into what they describe as a “sustained assault on democratic standards” by the council’s Labour-Independent coalition.
The letter, sent by Flintshire People’s Voice (FPV) and signed by the party’s six county councillors, warns that if the situation is left “unchecked” it could lead to financial mismanagement similar to that seen in “poorly governed councils in England, such as Thurrock and Croydon.”
The group says the coalition administration has repeatedly undermined the council’s scrutiny process, which is designed to ensure decisions are transparent, accountable, and in the public interest.
Concerns raised in the letter include the removal of opposition councillors from key scrutiny committees, attempts to restrict or ban questions and motions, and coalition members “falling asleep during council meetings.”
The councillors also highlight refusals by cabinet members to answer questions on notice, breaches of Freedom of Information law confirmed by the Information Commissioner’s Office, and scrutiny chairs acting “beyond their powers” to block opposition members from speaking.
Audit Wales oversees public sector accounts in Wales and can investigate cases of poor governance, improper spending, or weak scrutiny arrangements. It has previously examined the effectiveness of scrutiny at other Welsh councils, citing a lack of proper oversight as a risk to value for money.
Cllr Sam Swash, leader of Flintshire People’s Voice, said: “Pretty much from the day the Labour-Independent coalition was formed, they’ve waged attacks on democratic standards and scrutiny in Flintshire.
“We’ve had enough. The people of Flintshire deserve better than a council that dismantles the checks and balances designed to protect residents from incompetence and waste.”
The letter, addressed to Auditor General for Wales Adrian Crompton, urges Audit Wales to prioritise an investigation into Flintshire County Council.
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