A STRICT code of practice has been drawn up over who can listen to tape recordings of district council meetings.

Although the new microphone system has been in operation for some weeks in the Chamber at Bromsgrove District Council, the recording facility has not been used because officers felt guidelines were needed over who could access tapes.

Members of the council's policy and resources committee last Wednesday were presented with a five-part draft code prepared by district secretary Bob Lewis.

He suggested councillors could listen and make notes or copies but only after prior written application and then only when accompanied by a senior officer.

And the public and press will not ordinarily be granted permission unless approved by the new executive cabinet.

Opposing elements of the code, Labour group leader Cllr Peter McDonald (Uffdown and Waseley) said the proposed restrictions smacked of "control freakism" and urged that the press and public be given free unrestricted access.

He was supported by his deputy, Cllr Colin Wilson (Uffdown and Waseley), who said councillors should have nothing to hide.

Urging caution on giving access to the tapes for legal reasons, and the pressure put on staff resources, Mr Lewis said the prime reason for installing the system was to improve sound.

He said there was no suggestion of hiding anything, adding debates are open to all.

"If people are interested they can come along, listen and take notes rather than come back weeks later to listen to a tape," he said. Cllr McDonald's amendment was defeated by 12 votes.