Hi all
I hope that you are well
I have been asked if the Chairman’s consort can lay a wreath at Remembrance on the Chairmans behalf in the village they live (as Chairman will be on duty in the City).
I advised no, as the consort has no ceremonial role/powers, but I have received some push back from an individual.
May I have some other views on this?
Thank you!
Hi Lauren
I would suggest checking your Constitution and any Mayoral / Chairman Induction or Protocol documents first, as these will usually set out any formal ceremonial roles and delegations.
In our authority, the Chairman’s / Mayor’s Consort is not recognised as holding an official civic role throughout the municipal year. The Consort is essentially the Chair’s or Mayor’s accompanying guest and does not hold any ceremonial powers or authority in their own right.
On that basis, we would not normally regard the Consort as being able to fulfil civic duties on behalf of the Chairman, including laying a wreath in place of the Chairman. If the Chairman is unable to attend because they are carrying out their duties elsewhere, I would suggest that another Councillor be asked to lay the wreath instead, particularly if the wreath is being laid on behalf of the Council / area rather than on behalf of a specific organisation.
Ultimately, the position should be determined by your own governing documents, but unless there is a specific provision recognising the Consort as having a formal representative role, I would be inclined to agree with your original advice.
I’ve had the same question from our Deputy Mayor and Consort and have said no, because the consort has no civic standing in their own right.
Hi Tracy
That is so helpful, thank you. I shall stand firm!!
Thank you 
Thank you Becky - this is helpful and reassuring!!