Commentary on Sections Introduction Chapter 1: Parishes Section 76: Appointed councillors
188.This section amends sections 15 and 16 of the Local Government Act 1972 to ensure chairman and vice-chairman of parish councils are chosen from among the elected councillors rather than those who have been appointed. The section also inserts a new section 16A into that Act.
189.Section 16A allows a parish council to appoint individuals to be councillors. The new section allows the Secretary of State to make provision in regulations about appointed councillors. It is expected that this power will be used to specify the kinds of individual who may be appointed as councillors - for example representatives of key community groups or young people. In exercising a function under or by virtue of this section, parish councils must have regard to any guidance issued by the Secretary of State about the exercise of that function.