The way forward for public consultation

10.13.36am GMT Sun 26th Oct 2008

• THE new scrutiny task group that has been set up to look at Richmond Council's consultation process will hold a public meeting on Monday October 27, in St Mary's Church Hall, Church Street, Twickenham, starting at 7pm.

Speakers will include a variety of community organisations. Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting, where they will have the opportunity to join in the question and answer session at the end. The Council's Chair of Overview and Scrutiny, Cllr Sue Jones, said: "Overview and scrutiny is absolutely vital to local democracy functioning properly. Following on from the consultants' report last year, we are reviewing how it works in Richmond upon Thames. We need to communicate and consult effectively and efficiently; without the help of our local residents and local businesses this is not possible. It is vital that the public participate in this process and I hope as many as possible will come along on October 27."