24^th July 2018

Dear Cllr Wilson,

I have been informed that on 20^th July 2018 you sent a letter to Jeremy Corbyn MP, Jennie Formby and myself. I have not received a copy at this time, although I note it is clearly on Facebook.

You make a very serious allegation that Labour Councillors mocked Cllr Golby during the meeting of 11^th July 2018 but do not give any specific details of what happened.

I am a strong advocate of treating all people with respect. Your inference that Labour Councillors “mock and abuse” people with disabilities is such a serious matter that I have referred your letter to the Council’s Monitoring Officer so that a thorough independent investigation can take place. I am surprised, if you feel the behaviour of some Councillors fell below that expected in the Code of Conduct, that you have not referred the matter yourself. If warranted the Monitoring Officer may of course refer the matter to the police whether he finds a case to answer or indeed concludes that your allegations are incorrect.

I remain fully committed to ensuring that the Council and elected officials follow appropriate procedures and that all Members behave in a way that upholds the integrity of Local Government.

Yours sincerely

Julie Jackson

Council Leader

Cc Jeremy Corbyn MP, Jennie Formby