Response Part 1
In response to a comment on the previous posting, I will try to answer the points raised, succinctly.
Portfolio holders sit on the Executive Committee and work with the Council officers in their area of responsibility. This will involve giving input on behalf of elected members and hence the residents of the District, on the workings of the Council in terms of the day to day running of operations as well as strategic direction.
They are answerable to the elected Council which will take decisions ultimately, but will delegate certain functions to Portfolio Holders to act on their behalf. We are on occasions invited to attend the Overview and Scrutiny Committee (as I was last week) to explain and justify their activities and proposals.
In addition they represent the Council on outside bodies - the Shared Services Committee consisting of elected representatives from the three South Worcestershire districts and County Council is a relevant example.
The role is similar to a cabinet member in some authorities.