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Despite debating the matter, the conservatives refused the proposal and supported newly elected Cllr Linda Trew (Conservative, Mawneys) instead. Cllr Van Den Hende, who has relevant professional experience, was as a magistrate for 6 years and has already served 4 years on the Licensing committee said: “ Licensing is a committee which is apolitical in nature and relies on the expertise and judgement of all of its members to function proficiently. The position of Vice Chair is without a financial allowance and it seems entirely reasonable and fair that at least one of the three positions is given over to a member who does not happen to be a conservative councillor”. 1.6.10 |
The position of Vice-Chair of the Licensing Committee was a contested issue at Full Council last week. The committee, which comprises of 11 members, is led by a conservative chair supported by three conservative vice-chairs. However, the Residents' Association proposed that, in the interests of fair balance, Cllr Linda Van Den Hende (RA, Upminster) should fulfil one of the Vice Chair positions.