Political rows erupted at last night's executive meeting of West Berkshire Council.
Council leader Jeff Brooks (Lib Dem, Thatcham West) clashed with opposition leader Ross Mackinnon (Con, Bradfield) over whether Mr Mackinnon should be allowed to ask a question.
Mr Brooks said he was constantly facing disruption from Mr Mackinnon interrupting proceedings, and threatened to 'at some point' have him removed unless he respected the chair.
Mr Mackinnon accused the Liberal Democrat administration of ducking scrutiny after the leader refused to take questions on the council's own performance report. He repeatedly put his hand up but was told he would have to use tabled questions.
The Conservatives said the refusal was serious because the role of leader of the opposition is formally recognised in the council's constitution, including through a special responsibility allowance. That reflects a clear democratic function: to scrutinise the administration and hold it publicly to account.
"This was not a courtesy being asked for. It was democratic scrutiny," said Mr Mackinnon.
"If the Liberal Democrats want to take credit when the numbers look good, they cannot hide behind procedure when the questions get difficult," added Mr Mackinnon.
The refusal raises concerns about transparency as the council faces financial pressure and residents are being asked to pay more. Separately, no public financial report was made available on the resources and scrutiny meeting earlier in the week.
"Blocking questions at a public meeting does not make those concerns disappear."
"It just makes the administration look less willing to be held to account."
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
