Part 3 – Rules of Procedure

Part 3 of the Portsmouth City Council Constitution sets out the rules and procedures that govern how the Council carries out its business. These rules help ensure that meetings, decisions and financial arrangements are lawful, transparent and consistent.

Part 3 explains how information is shared, how meetings are run, how money and contracts are managed, and how staff are employed. Together, these rules support clear and accountable decision making across the Council.

Each set of rules is published as a separate PDF document. Some PDFs may not be fully accessible for all users. If you need any document in an alternative format, such as accessible Word, large print or plain text, please contact us and we will help. All files open in PDF format.

• Access to Information Procedure Rules (PDF)
  Explains how Council information, meetings and decisions are made available to the public.
• Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules (PDF)
  Sets out how budgets and key Council policies are proposed, approved and reviewed.
• Executive Procedure Rules (PDF)
  Explains how the Cabinet makes decisions and how executive meetings are run.
• Policy and Review Panels (Overview and Scrutiny) Procedure Rules (PDF)
  Explains how scrutiny panels review decisions and hold the Council to account.
• Part 3A – Standing Orders (approved July 2020) (PDF)
  Sets out the rules for how Council meetings are conducted.
• Contract and Procurement Rules for pre-existing contracts before 1 April 2025 (PDF)
  Explains how the Council buys goods, services and works, and how contracts are awarded and managed before 1 April 2025.
• Part 3A – Contract and Procurement Rules (PDF)
  Explains how the Council buys goods, services and works, and how contracts are awarded and managed.
• Part 3B – Acquisition, disposal, use and development of land rules (PDF)
  Sets out the rules for managing Council land and property.
• Part 3C – Financial Rules 1 (PDF)
  Sets out the core rules for managing the Council’s finances.
• Part 3C – Financial Rules 2 (PDF)
  Provides further detail on financial controls and responsibilities.
• Part 3D – Officers’ Employment Procedure Rules (PDF)
  Sets out the rules for appointing, managing and disciplining Council officers.