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iii. Record and analyse issues raised with them by Members, officers, the public and other relevant stakeholders.

Providing advice on the scope of powers and authority to take decisions, maladministration, financial impropriety, probity (and budget and policy framework issues) to the Mayor, all Councillors and officers.

Is authorised to institute, defend, settle or participate in any legal proceedings in any case where such action is necessary to give effect to decisions of the Council or in any case where such action is considered to be necessary to protect the Council’s interests and may designate nominated officers to carry out this function on their behalf.

Consult with and instruct counsel, solicitors and other experts for legal proceedings, public inquiries, and other matters involving the Council, and the negotiation and settlement of legal disputes on behalf of the Council, the Mayor, Committees of the Council or officers and arrangements for their representation in any court, public inquiry or other forum where formal representation is considered to be proper, including the incurring of such fees in respect thereof as may be appropriate.

May authorise officers to appear on behalf of the Council in proceedings in the magistrate’ courts, pursuant to section 223 of the Local Government Act 1972.

May authorise officers to appear on behalf of the Council in any proceedings in the county court in relation to the recovery of possession of a house belonging to the Council or the recovery of any rent, mesne profits, damages or other sum claimed in respect of the occupation by any person of such a house, pursuant to section 60 of the County Courts Act 1984.