Shadow Minister for Local Government, William Graham AM, has signed an e-petition calling for ‘filming and recording of council meetings’.
The Assembly Member for South Wales East has called for all local authorities to allow public filming in council chambers.
Mr Graham said: “This is the age of Twitter, Facebook and Blogs. With it, comes increased transparency and accountability.
“Every public institution needs to sign up to that and embrace it. That means filming in council chambers as well.
“As long as the actions don’t impede or obstruct proceedings, I passionately believe that this kind of interaction should be encouraged – not prevented.
“The more information that is publicly available, the bigger the chance of getting people engaged with their councils. That – in turn – will encourage democratic participation.
“All local authorities should welcome the opportunities presented by the digital age.
“Standing in the way of them is drawing the curtains on transparency.”
The e-petition can be viewed at http://www.assemblywales.org/gethome/e-petitions.htm
