Chief executive steps aside pending police investigation

The chief executive of Carmarthenshire County Council has agreed to no longer undertake his duties until a police enquiry into issues raised in two Wales Audit Office public interest reports has been concluded.

Dyfed-Powys Police announced last week that, having considered the reports, it had decided that an investigation should take place to ascertain whether or not any criminal offences had taken place.

The WAO has claimed that the council acted unlawfully in relation to pensions arrangements and the granting of an indemnity to chief executive Mark James in relation to a libel counterclaim.

Responsibility for the investigation was handed to Gloucestershire Constabulary because Dyfed-Powys felt it was not appropriate for it to handle the matter given its close working relationship with Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire (also the subject of a WAO report).

In a statement Cllr Kevin Madge, Leader of Carmarthenshire, said: “By mutual agreement the chief executive Mr Mark James will no longer undertake his duties as chief executive from now until Police enquiries concerning the two Wales Audit Office public interest reports have been concluded.

“I welcome the police investigation which will give the public the assurance they deserve.

“The Auditor has not referred his reports to the police nor has he made any suggestions of any criminal wrongdoing, and I hope that the investigation can be concluded as quickly as possible in order for us as a council to move forward.”

Cllr Madge said that during Mr James’ absence, his role would be performed by the current deputy chief executive, Dave Gilbert.

In the statement on the Carmarthenshire website, Mark James added that he was absolutely certain that neither he nor any of his officers had done anything wrong but that it was only right and proper that he should not be in the office whilst the police concluded their enquiries. “This would avoid any perception of undue influence being brought to bear.”

Mr James said he hoped that the police enquiry could be conducted as quickly as possible as this was "in everyone’s best interest".

Cllr Madge added:  “I have nothing further to say on this matter. There will be a full, frank and public debate on the reports at the Council meeting of February 27.”

See also:

Police to investigate after watchdog issues public interest reports 

Council publishes legal advice as row over libel indemnity worsens

Watchdog tells council to withdraw libel indemnity given to chief exec