Minutes:
Councillor Hopgood recalled that a proposal was made at a previous meeting to consider bestowing the title of Honorary Freeman to three former Charter Trustees and suggested that the position of Honorary Aldermen also be considered.
The Clerk explained the distinction between an Honorary Freeman and an Honorary Alderman. He advised that the principal council, in this case Durham County Council, governed by the Local Government Act 1972, could confer the title of Honorary Alderman to a past councillor with 16 years or more service and providing two thirds of voting members agree at a special meeting.
The relevant authority for the Honorary Freeman, which is the Charter Trust, could confer the title to a person of distinction and who, in their opinion, rendered eminent services to that place or area, providing two thirds of the voting Trustees agree at a special meeting.
Trustees appreciated that the decision would be made on the merits of each individual, however, felt it would be prudent to understand the parameters and have details of previous recipients of the title in addition to a complete biography for each candidate to help make an informed decision. The Clerk advised that selection was at the Trustees discretion within the law and Trustees would have to determine how they judge if each candidate qualified for the status.
The Clerk confirmed that upon receiving any nominations together with a supporting biography to support them he could provide a report detailing legislation, previous recipients of the title and the proposals from Trustees who were proposing to bestow the title of Honorary Freemen. A special meeting would then be arranged to vote on the proposals.
Resolved:
That the Clerk, upon receipt of nominations together with supporting biographies, to provide a report to a special meeting detailing legislation, previous recipients of the title and proposals for the title of Honorary Freemen.