Kent Fire and Rescue Service
Convention on Member/Officer Relations

5.1. Official press statements relating to the normal functions and business of the Authority of a non-controversial nature may be issued by the Chief Executive from time to time.

5.2. After publication copies will be made available to any Member of the Authority on request.

5.3. In issuing any press release, the Chief Executive will have regard to the Code of Practice on Local Authority Publicity.

5.4. Only the Chairman of the Authority, or in his or her absence, the Vice-Chairman, or another Member nominated by the Chairman) may represent the Authority in press, radio and television interviews. 

5.5. Other Members of the Authority may respond to requests for press, radio and television interviews, but these will be given in a personal capacity and on the personal responsibility of the Member concerned.

5.6. The Chief Executive or, with his or her agreement, the relevant Director may deal with requests for information or questions asked by the press, television or radio and may accept invitations to broadcast or appear on television in order to give the facts of a situation or provide background information on:-

a) Channel Tunnel Safety Authority matters.

b) Matters relating to the Authority’s policies, subject to the appearance being made known to the Chairman in advance so far as is practicable.

5.7. Any Member who receives a Freedom of Information request relating to the Authority or its business should pass it immediately to the Chief Executive for formal processing under the Act.