What is the primary role of the Overview and Scrutiny committees?

The primary role of the Overview and Scrutiny committees is to challenge or advise cabinet members. These committees are established within local government structures to provide checks and balances on the decisions made by the executive, typically the cabinet. Their function is to scrutinize the work of the cabinet, hold it accountable, and ensure transparency in decision-making processes.

By engaging in this oversight, Overview and Scrutiny committees can question cabinet members about policies, decisions, and areas of concern, thereby promoting better governance. They can also make recommendations based on their findings which can influence policy development and implementation. This process is essential for ensuring that local authorities operate effectively and in the interest of the community they serve.