Conservative Group leader on Swansea Council quits

Investigations are taking place into Swansea Council and whether anything improper was agreed over spending arrangements to secure support from Conservative councillors for the Lib Dem/Independent administration.

Cllr Rene Kinzett, who has reported the matter, has resigned as leader of  the five-strong Conservative Group.

In a statement he says:

"I resign as of tonight and I state the reason being that I seem to have lost the confidence of three of my Conservative group colleagues because I have taken a very strong line in the ethics involved in public spending, with the moralities of decision-making in an open and transparent manner, and safeguarding the interests of the taxpayers of Swansea."

The South Wales Evening Post adds:

He referred to the fact Liberal Democrat council leader Chris Holley and Independent John Hague had been referred to the local Government watchdog for Wales, along with Conservative councillor Paxton Hood-Williams, and that police had been called in by the ombudsman to consider whether a criminal investigation should ensue.

It is understood the matter relates to alleged discussions about support for the ruling Lib Dem-led coalition — and in particular, giving extra spending to projects in certain Conservative-held wards.

Council leader Chris Holley says that has not been wrong doing, he is pleased the police are investigating to "put matters to rest" and hopes for a "speedy result."