Delay in publishing Millergate review

PUBLICATION of an independent review into the failed fraud trial of controversial kitchen trader Vance Miller has been delayed.

Lawyer Stewart Dobson was asked to review the prosecution of Mr Miller and three associates which was described by a judge as “misconceived from the start”.

Last Wednesday, Mr Dobson presented a summary report to Oldham Council’s Cabinet outlining his findings in relation to the failed prosecution in January.

The report criticised council chiefs for their handling of the trial, which cost £2.1million.

It also said senior council staff failed to hold account the decision to prosecute Mr Miller, and that the risks were not identified and monitored.

The full report, paid for by Oldham Council, was due to be published on the council website today.

However, due to ongoing legal proceedings, its publication has now been put back until Thursday.

The full report will next go before Oldham Council’s Audit Committee on November 23 as planned.