1.2  Interest

 

If you have a connection to a matter being discussed, you must then decide, under Stage 2, whether it amounts to an interest that requires to be declared. The Code requires you to apply the objective test, which is whether a member of the public with knowledge of the relevant facts would reasonably regard your connection to a particular matter as being so significant that it would be considered as being likely to influence your discussion or decision-making. If yes, the connection is an interest that requires to be declared.

Importantly, the test is not based on your own knowledge of your motivations or whether you believe you would be influenced; it is based on what an informed member of the public would reasonably think.

The Code makes clear that interests must be declared in both formal and informal interactions with officers and other councillors, not only in formal Council or committee meetings.