Stop being nasty with Nigel, says council boss

OLDHAM’S Liberal Democrats are urging former Labour councillor Nigel Newton to repay allowances they say he wrongly claimed.

But council leader Jim McMahon has branded their actions “nasty, distasteful and morally reprehensible.”

Mr Newton, who represents St James ward, announced last week he was standing down from his post for personal reasons. Elected in May 2011, he attended only one of the last seven meetings and last appeared at full council last October.

Lib-Dem Councillor Roger Hindle, who also represents St James, said: “Mr Newton has not attended any of the six district executive meetings this municipal year. Mr Newton has been claiming his allowances since his last attendance at full council up to his resignation at the end of March. This will be in the region of £3,700.

“I would call on Nigel to consider his position and offer to repay some, if not all, allowances claimed during this time.

“I have a great deal of sympathy for what Nigel has gone through. But it is important to do the best possible for your constituents at all times. You are elected for a reason.”

In response Councillor McMahon said: “It is always difficult to balance a good home life, full-time employment and representing your community.

“Some members of the opposition have tried to seize on Nigel’s personal circumstances to undermine his position as a councillor. I find that morally reprehensible and more of a reflection of some very nasty and distasteful people than anything more.”