128.Section 55 puts in place arrangements for the functions of a standards committee for parish council to be carried out on their behalf by the district council (or unitary county council where there is no district). Section 55(1) to (3) specifies that this can be discharged either through the standards committee of the district or by setting up a sub-committee of the standards committee to specifically consider parish council conduct issues. In deciding whether or not to set up a separate sub-committee to consider parish issues, section 55(4) requires the district council to consult the parishes concerned. Furthermore, section 55(6) and (7) requires at least one parish member to be present when the committee or subcommittee discusses parish issues. This section also enables the Secretary of State to make regulations under section 53 on the size, composition and proceedings of standards committees for parish councils. Similarly, the Standards Board may issue guidance under sections 53 and 54, as for other standards committees.
Introduction Commentary on sections Section 55: Standards committees or sub-committees for parish councils