THE COUNCIL is paying for councillors to learn how to tell jokes without causing offence.
Whether it is appropriate to indulge in ‘banter’ will also be included in the equalities lesson for authority members.
They have been invited to take part in a one-day training session to help them understand policies for harassment and racial, sexual, disability and age discrimination.
With particular emphasis on humour.
The Chronicle has obtained a copy of an e-mail advertising the course which was sent out to all councillors by the advisor for member development.
It stated: “What sort of jokes are acceptable? Is it ok to ignore ‘banter’ as an organisation or as an individual? Where is the line drawn on acceptable and unacceptable behaviour?
The e-mail warned that members who breech the equalities legislation can lose their job, face a prison sentence or a fine of up to £50,000.
