Decision details

The Leader moved the motion in his name. Councillor Ross Houston moved an amendment in his name. Debate ensued.

The amendment in the name of Councillor Ross Houston was put to the vote.

Votes were recorded as follows:

The amendment in the name of Councillor Ross Houston was declared CARRIED

The substantive motion as amended by Councillor Ross Houston was put to the vote.

Votes were recorded as follows:

RESOLVED that:

The Council recognises that:

1.     Barnet has a historic connection with the Armed Forces, having been home to RAF Hendon and Inglis Barracks, amongst other military premises.

2.     Barnet signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2012.

3.     The Armed Forces Community is of great importance to Barnet and it is imperative it is fully integrated, treated fairly with respect and gratitude.

4.     ‘Renewing the Covenant in the Capital’ is a project that has been developed to help improve the understanding and delivery of the Armed Forces Covenant across London’s boroughs.

5.     The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

6.     Barnet Council is currently recognised with a Bronze Award.

The Council believes that:

1.     Barnet should continuously support the Armed Forces Community in recognition of their service and many sacrifices. This includes serving men and women and their families, veterans and members of reserve and cadet forces.

2.     Reiterating the importance of the Covenant will give Barnet the opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to the Armed Forces community; to find better ways to share best practice and to adopt new approaches that will improve the integration and appreciation of the Armed Forces across the borough.

The Council resolves to:

1.     Have the renewed Armed Forces Covenant signed by:

a)    The Mayor and Leader of the Council and Leaders of each other political group.

b)    Representatives from the health, education, employment, housing, multi-faith and voluntary sectors.

c)    Representatives from the emergency services.

2.     Show our commitment towards supporting the armed forces in Barnet by achieving both Silver and then Gold Award status in the Employer Recognition Scheme.