COUNTY councillors agreed to change authority rules after Calne farmer Nancy Bryant, a senior member of the Conservative ruling group, was admonished.

Coun Bryant, former NFU Wiltshire chairman, apologised to the council for bringing it into disrepute after the local government ombudsman found the council guilty of maladministration.

The problem arose over the county farms selection panel, on which Coun Bryant, of Mile End Dairy Farm, was a member. When the panel considered allocating the tenancy of a vacant farm Coun Bryant failed to disclose she was related by marriage to the successful applicant.

She declared a non-pecuniary interest but failed to leave the meeting and took part in the discussion and decision making. A neighbouring farmer, who unsuccessfully bid for the tenancy complained.

The ombudsman ruled the council should make a £500 ex-gratia payment to the complainant.

At a county council meeting on Tuesday Mrs Bryant left the chamber after informing members she has resigned from all county farms committees.

Liberal Democrat group leader Philip Allnatt said the matter was of great significance to the council but added: "As far as I am concerned Mrs Bryant has behaved honourably throughout and again today."

Councillors agreed Coun Bryant should be removed from the panel until April 2001; standing orders should be tightened up and councillors with a substantial interest should explain why they wish to remain in the meeting.