TWO new members are needed for a watchdog to scrutinise county councillors conduct.

TWO new members are needed for a watchdog panel to scrutinise county councillors conduct.

Devon County Council is looking for two independent members for its Standards Committee to ensure the high standards of conduct by county council members.

The standards committee acts as champion and guardian of the Council's ethical standards and, normally, meets every four months.

A vacancy is available for two independent members who are interested in the fairness and integrity of the council and who can weigh up conflicting evidence and reach an effective conclusion.

The chairman of Devon County Councils standards committee, Professor Bill Forsythe said: "It is becoming increasingly important to have independent members serving on the committee, to ensure public figures are acting appropriately and to help maintain the high standards that are a most important aspect of any public body.

"We are looking for someone of integrity and good character who has respect for others and an understanding of diverse ethical issues."

The term of office is for three years, from May 2010, and the applicant cannot have any close links with any county councillors or officers or be a current or previous member of the county or district council.

Applicants should also not be actively engaged in local party politics, have any personal, legal or contractual links with the council or have any current criminal convictions.

Anyone interested in applying should contact Jan Shadbolt on 01392 382285 or Rob Hooper on 01392 382300 or by email rob.hooper@devon.gov.uk.

Completed applications forms should be returned by 19 March 2010.

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