First meeting back after Recess. The usually dependble and only mildly controversial Transport Scrutiny.
I pointed out rather than just stand an item down we could give a sense of direction for what WE wanted in the Report not wait to find out what staff wanted to tell us. This was not about facts but "direction of travel" and "scene setting"
At the end of the next agenda item we were subjected to a long monologue for a consultant on how we needed more information, we needed the bigger picture, we were not getting the information. "Go figure" think I, who spends much time in and out of meetings wanting answers and workign to get them. I was not alone in pointing out I ahd just done that, what did they think we fouhgt to keep our researchers for, and anyway oif we tried to argue with staff we were accused of "bullying" or micro managing by those who cannot cope. (This does not stop Andrew and I, we continue with tough questions on your behalf, we are answerable to you not consultants).
I was also astonished to be told, in common with the rest of my colleagues, I was not aware of information on our web site which was germane to our discussion. Such omniscience! I was not asked if I was aware, just told I was not. I patiently explained that not having printed it off did not mean I had not read it (I did not point out as the current Chairman of Planning, and a member for 20 years of one Transport committee or another I had helped produce the policy!)
Blow me down, after the meeting I find the consultant complained I was rude! Let me see. I question officers, and argue with them, exposing the errors in their position if needed; other times we agree! This after a 15 minute session patronising members!
I am told the consultant used to be a social services officer and was retired.
This will be a continuing series I feel, one in which we lift the lid off some of what it is like in the modern climate where retired officers (not set in any ways there or predisposed in any wnay then!) tell us what to do on your behalf. Amazing.
The sad thing is we have some first rate officers, who write good reports, and assist memebrs by giving good advice. Fortunate enough to have been praised in both my chairmanships by external inspectors I know it is because whatever modest talents I may have I put the public first - and am served by good officers who work with me and counsel me against potential errors. Nevertheless we will run this series at times, get the flavour of the battles we fight at times to deliver on what you want; as well as the incredible parallel universe that exists in which the governing elite think
