REPORT OF THE

Cabinet / Leader

Part II

INTERNATIONAL LINKS

On 19 December 2005 the Cabinet considered a report detailing the background to the County Council's involvement in European and international activity, which reviewed the benefits this has reaped and suggested a framework for the future. The County Council's active involvement in European and international activity has led to an enormous potential for sharing expertise, knowledge and experience, which has influenced the development of policy and practice on high priority issues for the Council where it can execute a strong leadership role locally, nationally and internationally. Full details of current networks, partnerships and projects is available on request from the Chief Executive's Department.

A lot of opportunities exist to promote the interests of Hampshire and with the appointment of a new Cabinet member for Community Development and External Affairs, it was felt timely to review the framework for this work to ensure there are shared values and objectives in the activities undertaken and the benefits achieved. The review focussed on the outcomes of the Best Value Review of international relations conducted in 2002/03 and resulted in the development of a vision to provide a framework for the Council's future activities. The Cabinet approved the following vision statement:

"Hampshire County Council's status as an excellent authority will be supported, developed and sustained through its European and international activities. It will work with international networks and agencies to promote the interests of Hampshire and influence and shape policy development internally and in Europe for the benefit of Hampshire people. International work adds value to the Council's corporate priorities and services to promote the economic, social and environmental well-being of Hampshire"

a decision which supports all six aims of the Corporate Strategy.

In order to take this forward, a clear focus on those networks and organisations that can deliver the strategy is required. To assist this process, Members and the International Officers Group will identify priority activities and how to disseminate information. A progress report will be submitted to the Cabinet in the summer.

T.K. THORNBER, CBE.,

Leader