A new process which allows councillors to question cabinet members and senior staff outside full council meetings should continue, a meeting has heard.

Powys Council's democratic service said the "questions at any other time” scheme, which has been running since November, should remain as it is after its pilot period was deemed a success.

It allows members to ask questions of cabinet members and heads of service both inside and outside of full council meetings.

Stephen Hayes , the independent councillor representing Montgomery, said: “I’m happy we continue with this, what I’m slightly concerned about is that we don’t lose our ability as councillors to go direct to portfolio holders or heads of service.

“Not everything is appropriate for a formal question and that speed of access for an informal chat is invaluable to all of us.

“Questions at full council should remain. I know they are a pain and often waste a lot of time but for transparency sake it should be available and if we recommend they are removed than council will not approve it.”

The trial started in November 2019 and follows a model working at Newport City Council.

Questions on operational matters would be sent to heads of service to answer and policy issues to cabinet members.

The recommendation will be discussed and decided at the next full council meeting – which is scheduled for May 14.