The party's group at Norfolk County Council says the move is to recognise that remarks made during political debate should not be "discouraged simply because some people find them offensive, unpopular or controversial".

But political opponents say it could make political debate "more hostile" and enable councillors to dodge standards complaints.

Norfolk County Council's County Hall headquarters (Image: Mike Page)

Reform wants a forthcoming review of the council's constitution to consider how Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights - which protects the rights of freedom of expression - relates to the code of conduct for councillors.

The code of conduct outlines how councillors are expected to behave and is used to determine whether their actions have breached it, which can lead to sanctions.

A motion to be tabled before all 84 councillors at full council on Tuesday calls for possible changes to the constitution be considered so Article 10 is "given appropriate weight when considering the conduct of elected members".

The motion states: "Councillors have a democratic duty to represent their constituents and engage in political debate.

"Political expression may include language or opinions that some may........

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