Mike Stonard, leader of Norwich City Council, has come under fire after changing how members are allowed to hold his Labour-run cabinet to account.

While opposition leaders have previously been allowed to ask their own questions in cabinet meetings, these must now be submitted days in advance and will be read out by Mr Stonard.

The leader has defended the decision as an exercise in effective time-management but some councillors have accused him of dodging scrutiny, describing the changes as "undemocratic".

Norwich City Hall (Image: Eden Dorrell) WHAT ARE THE CHANGES?

City Hall's cabinet consists of eight members of the Labour group, including the leader of the council, and is the main decision-making body.

Their meetings are often attended by opposition group leaders, who may ask questions relating to items on the agenda.

Previously, the leader has allowed ad-hoc questions to be asked during these sessions.

Mike Stonard, leader of Norwich City Council (Image: Newsquest)........

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