Tory council bans twitter
By Alice Cannet
Plymouth City council has tried to ban the use of Twitter following problems and possible abuse by the micro-blogging users.
The council said this morning they were reviewing the decision by the chief executive of the Tory- led council Barry Keel to ban elected councilors from using Twitter.
From the opposition, the reaction was predictable and Labour councilors drew the comparison with events in Iran.
Plymouth council said: “We are currently reviewing our policies and procedures on use of information technology and social networking sites following complaints from staff and members of the public about use of language and inappropriate comments.”
“Anyone representing the council has a duty to uphold the highest standards and while these problems have been caused by a very small minority of individuals, inappropriate communication can cause great offence and damage the council’s reputation.
“Access to Twitter is now being limited while the review is being carried out. In the meantime the council will continue to communicate news and jobs information through Twitter.”
Nicky Wildy, a Labour councilor at Plymouth, said on Twitter: “Chief exec of Plymouth CC sends email to ban Twitter use by councillors. So in touch with the mood of openness – not. Tweets continue!”
And then: “Thinks Plymouth’s chief executive Twitter ban may bring Plymouth CC into disrepute? Is this a matter to be investigated? Enough! Bedtime.”
Labour councilor Bill Stevens said on Twitter: “So Plymouth City Council has now been joined by the Islamic Republic of Iran in blocking Facebook!!!!”
“Candidate for Commons Speaker praise Twitter, Iranian protesters use Twitter, so what does Plymouth City Council do? Block it, of course!!!”
Twitter is a popular new media tool which allows users to send their followers short statements of up to 140 characters.
