One-off Portsmouth council meeting to cost taxpayers £5,000 for new cameras and microphones

By Fiona Callingham
Published 14th May 2021, 17:26 BST
Updated 14th May 2021, 17:27 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now
TAXPAYERS will have to foot a £5,000 bill for new equipment to allow a one-off council meeting to take place next week, due to Covid rules.

As reported, the government controversially decided not to allow virtual council meetings to continue past May 17 - despite concerns from authorities and the Local Government Association.

In light of this Portsmouth City Council is holding its annual general meeting in the auditorium of the Guildhall to allow councillors to sit two metres apart.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

New microphones and cameras have been purchased so it can be broadcast online as usual.

Council leader Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson who had opposed meetings returning in person. Picture: Sarah Standing (191119-2516)