Police candidate dismisses 'conflict of interest' claim

CONCERNS have been voiced about the fact that the Conservative candidate for the post of police and crime commissioner for Warwickshire is married to the leader of Warwickshire County Council.

Tory candidate Philip Seccombe, who is a member of Stratford District Council – representing the ward of Ettington - is the husband of Cllr Izzi Seccombe (Cons, Stour and the Vale), the county council leader.

One member of the Conservative Party told the Herald: “This doesn’t sit right with a lot of people. There is the potential for a conflict of interest.”

But Mr Seccombe told the Herald: “This matter has been raised during the campaign, and I do understand a concern.

“Izzi is the leader of Warwickshire County Council, but with minority control. The council is run by a Cabinet, with each portfolio holder being responsible for different services. She has always complied with the council’s Code of Conduct.

“I signed up to the Nolan principles of Standards in Public Life many years ago, and have a record of declaring any possible conflict, or, indeed, the perception of one.”

There are five other candidates for the post of police and crime commissioner in Warwickshire when the election takes place on Thursday 5th May.

They are: Nicola Davies (Lib Dem), Julie Jackson (Lab), David Whitehouse (Ind), Ben Twomey (Ind) and Rob Harris (UKIP).