Agenda item

The following Motion on Notice was presented by Councillor Jane Spilsbury at the meeting:

 

“This Council notes:

 

·       The murder of Jo Cox MP on 16 June 2016 and the 10th anniversary of her death in 2026.

·       The murder of Sir David Amess MP on 15 October 2021 whilst carrying out a constituency surgery on behalf of his constituents.

·       The continuing abuse, intimidation and threats directed towards elected representatives at all levels of government.

·       Research showing that a significant number of councillors have experienced abuse, intimidation or harassment whilst carrying out their public duties.

 

This Council further notes:

·       That democracy is strengthened when people with differing political views can engage in robust but respectful debate.

·       That, as Jo Cox said in her maiden speech, "we have far more in common than that which divides us."

·       That public service should never place an individual at risk of abuse, intimidation or violence.

·       That elected representatives from all political parties, and those with no political affiliation, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

·       That abuse, intimidation and threats have no place in local government, national politics or wider public life.

 

This Council resolves:

·       To mark the lives and public service of Jo Cox MP and Sir David Amess MP through a minute's silence and reflection at this meeting.

·       To reaffirm its commitment to respectful political discourse and democratic engagement.

·       To stand united against abuse, intimidation and violence directed towards all elected representatives, regardless of political party or personal beliefs.

·       To encourage all those involved in public debate, both online and offline, to engage respectfully and constructively with those holding different views.”

 

The Motion was proposed by Councillor Spilsbury and seconded by Councillor Sharon Harvey.

 

In proposing the Motion, Councillor Spilsbury reflected on the tenth anniversary of the murder of Jo Cox MP on 16th June 2016 and the impact her death had on her family, friends, colleagues and the wider public. Reference was also made to the violent murder of Sir David Amess MP whilst undertaking similar constituency duties.

 

Members were reminded of the increasing levels of abuse, intimidation and harassment experienced by elected representatives at all levels of government. It was noted that public servants should be held accountable for their actions, but that threats, harassment and intimidation were unacceptable and risked creating further division within communities. Councillor Spilsbury encouraged all Members to join in condemning such behaviour and to support efforts to promote respectful democratic engagement.

 

Following the presentation of the Motion, Members discussed a number of points relating to the subject in detail:

 

·       Members discussed their own personal experiences with online abuse, harassment and intimidation and highlighted the significant increase in such behaviour directed at elected representatives in recent years, particularly through social media.

·       Noted that all elected representatives should be able to undertake their public duties without fear or intimidation.

·       Incidents of other politically and ideologically motivated violence, such as the murder of Lee Rigby and the Sousse attacks in 2015 in Tunisia, were discussed with Members stressing that such acts transcended party politics and should be universally condemned.

·       Members spoke of the emotional impact that sustained abuse could have on individuals, including its effects on wellbeing and mental health.

·       That criticism should focus on policies and decisions rather than personal attacks on individuals.

·       Concerns were raised regarding the growing division within society and the role that social media had played in widening those divisions.

·       The importance of treating one another with dignity, courtesy and respect, both within the Chamber and in wider public discourse.

·       Residents and community leaders were encouraged to challenge abusive behaviour and discrimination whenever it was encountered and that Councillors should set a positive example for the community through their conduct and interactions with others.

·       Noted that elected representatives must remain accountable for their actions and views, while ensuring that political debate could continue in a respectful and constructive manner.

 

In closing the debate, Councillor Spilsbury thanked Members for their contributions.

 

On being put to the vote the Motion was carried.

 

Following the vote on the Motion, Members observed a one-minute silence in memory of Jo Cox MP and Sir David Amess MP, recognising their public service and dedication to their constituents.

 

A second Motion on Notice was presented by Councillor Matthew Dormer at the meeting:

 

“Members will be aware of the extraordinary achievements of Redditch residents Jordan Adams and Cian Adams in undertaking and completing a series of endurance challenges to raise awareness of frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

 

Their efforts have attracted local, regional and national attention, bringing significant recognition to the Borough of Redditch whilst raising awareness of a devastating condition that has affected their own family and many others.

 

Jordan and Cian have through their efforts made an extraordinary contribution in terms of charitable fund raising. In addition, their campaign has raised awareness and had a positive impact in supporting individuals and families affected by dementia.

 

Jordan and Cian have provided inspiration to residents through their determination, resilience, selflessness and commitment to helping others. The recent homecoming celebrations and widespread community support demonstrated the pride and affection with which they have been received by the people of Redditch.

 

In light of the achievements set out above, Members are asked to RESOLVE as follows:

 

1.     That the service given by Cian and Jordan to the Borough is formally recognised and placed on record.

2.     That the Chief Executive and Monitoring Officer take the necessary steps to bring forward the required report and arrangements for a Special Meeting of the Council to be held in August 2026 to consider the formal conferment of the title of Honorary Freemen of the Borough on Jordan Adams and Cian Adams in accordance with the relevant statutory provisions”

 

The Motion was proposed by Councillor Dormer and seconded by Councillor Nic Pioli.

 

The exceptional efforts of Jordan and Cian Adams in raising awareness of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and funds for charity following their family's experience of the condition were highlighted. It was noted that their achievements had inspired people locally and nationally, brought positive recognition to Redditch and demonstrated courage, determination and community spirit.

 

Members were advised that the Motion did not seek to confirm the title of Honorary Freeman at the meeting, as this required a separate statutory process and special meeting of the Council. Instead, the Motion sought formal recognition of their outstanding service and requested that officers prepare the necessary report to enable the Council to consider their admission as Honorary Freemen of the Borough at a future meeting.

 

In considering the Motion, Members had detailed discussion and commented on the following points:

 

·       Praise was expressed to Jordan and Cian, and their support team, for their exceptional physical achievements and fundraising efforts in support of FTD.

·       Members shared their own experiences with witnessing the impact of dementia.

·       Members highlighted the importance of raising awareness and understanding of FTD, a condition that had previously received limited public attention.

·       Noted the courage shown by Jordan and Cian in undertaking fund raising challenges despite having first-hand knowledge of the disease’s potential impact on their future lives.

·       Emphasised the need for continued funding, research and support services for those living with FTD, and other types of dementia, and their families.

·       Members acknowledged the pride and positive recognition the brothers had brought to Redditch.

·       The significance of the award was emphasised as well as the brothers’ outstanding contribution to the community.

·       It was noted that the local Member of Parliament, Chris Bloore, was also working to highlight the brothers’ work in Parliament.

·       Members hoped that funds raised would contribute towards research into treatments and a potential cure for FTD.

 

In closing the debate, Councillor Dormer thanked Members for their support.

 

The Motion was carried.

 

[Following the vote on this Motion, the meeting was adjourned from 8:35pm until 8:43pm]