There was uproar in the council chamber as a councillor declared Barnet’s overview and scrutiny committees have failed to work.

Speaking at the full council meeting yesterday, Councillor Brian Coleman said he was “amazed” anyone could praise Barnet Borough Council’s overview and scrutiny committees “with a straight face.”

He said: “I’ve never rated scrutiny in this borough. I’ve found it an utter waste of time.”

He added the questions prepared by the officers toed party lines and councillors did not spend enough time looking over decisions.

He said: “Scrutiny has not fully engaged many members, has occasionally been treated with disdain by some councillors and officers and has disappointed residents who have failed to grasp the purpose.”

The representative for Totteridge spoke after Councillor Hugh Rayner urged the council to endorse the annual report of the overview and scrutiny committee for 2012/13.

He praised its “valuable contribution” in dealing with issues such as the council’s new public health responsibilities.

The Hale ward councillor said: “The scrutiny committees work well as a critical friend. It is important during outsourcing to discuss and challenge amendments rather than voting down party lines.”

He added Cllr Coleman’s attitude was “insulting” to council officers and councillors.

He said: “Councillors do engage with scrutiny the best they can. We must make the most of this system while we have it.”

Head of the Labour Group Alison Moore added she was “floored” by Cllr Rayner’s expansion on the benefits of scrutiny.

However Mayor of Barnet Melvin Cohen urged councillors to accept the report, which they did.