Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Role of the Committee

Scrutiny is even more important in light of the new powers that devolution brings. Effective scrutiny acts as a “critical friend” to decision-makers at the HSCCA. It supports better decision-making by reviewing policies, examining performance, and making constructive recommendations.

In practice, this means the Overview and Scrutiny Committee looks at decisions, plans and outcomes. By doing this, scrutiny helps drive improvement, increase transparency, and strengthen accountability.

The HSCCA Overview and Scrutiny Committee enables councillors to represent their communities by questioning and challenging the Board and, in future, the HSCCA Mayor. It focuses on the strategic issues that matter most to residents and aims to influence decisions in the public interest.

The Committee is made up of ten councillors, with two representatives from each of the constituent councils except Hampshire County Council who will nominate four representatives. In addition, at least two co-opted members will be appointed, whilst ensuring that the majority of members of the Overview & Scrutiny Committee are members of the constituent councils. Membership reflects, as far as possible, the overall political balance across those councils. There will also be substitute members nominated who can step in when needed to ensure the Committee continues to operate effectively.