Simple terms explainer:

Councils must appoint certain key officers required by law. These typically include the Chief Executive, who manages the council’s overall operations; the Monitoring Officer, who ensures the council acts lawfully and follows proper procedures; and the Chief Financial Officer, who oversees the council’s finances. These roles are essential for compliance with the law and proper governance. The council has a duty to ensure the conditions of employment of certain staff restrict their political activities. These post holders are disqualified from becoming or remaining a councillor in any UK local authority, and from membership of the House of Commons or the Scottish Parliament. They are also prohibited from engaging in certain political activities. The council must prepare and maintain the list of politically restricted posts.