There should be a clear distinction between the political leadership and the way their decisions are held to account by the opposition.

A Policy Development Committee, which recommends policy to cabinet, is directly opposite this.  The leading group should be forming policy as part of their paid Portfolios.  It is not for the opposition to recommend policies to them.

Having read the agenda item, and requested the background papers (which incidentally there are none, even though the report states they are available), the Independent Group cannot support the formation of this committee, or support the additional Special responsibilty Allowance that will be paid.

I therefore move that this agenda item be deferred pending further information & the missing background papers.