Labour fury at 'dodgy dossier'

South Gloucestershire Council witnessed angry scenes last night after emails obtained through Freedom of Information requests were released showing how closely council officials have worked with BAE Systems and its agents Terence O'Rourke Ltd on closing Filton Airfield.

 

One email shows that the council was instrumental in supporting the production of BAE Systems' report justifying the closure of the Airfield.  Other emails show that officials were assuring BAE's agents behind the scenes that the council's internal responses to Labour councillors' concerns were "all in hand".  In another, Terence O'Rourke Ltd advises BAE Systems to keep "a very close ongoing discussion" with a council official who "will be close to the members and should be able to provide early advice".

 

After an adjournment of last night's Council meeting to consider this material, which had been presented by a member of the public, the council's legal chief asserted that it did not disclose anything irregular, and that anyone who disagreed should seek advice on a future legal challenge.  Labour Group Leader Councillor Andy Perkins was prevented by the acting Chair from challenging this and from demanding answers as to the probity of the council's actions.

 

A furious Councillor Andy Perkins (Labour, Woodstock) told the press afterwards:

 

"Serious accusations have been made about the behaviour of South Gloucestershire Council officials, not least in relation to managing the political process, with evidence to back this up.  I was prevented last night from being given answers to our concerns, which are widely held.  This has led to a breakdown of trust and confidence, and I believe the Chief Executive is under no illusion how serious this fracture is.

 

It is now clear that council officials had a hand in 'sexing up' BAE System's justification for closing the Airfield.  It is South Gloucestershire's own 'dodgy dossier'.  According to the council's legal team this is "normal process".  I am sure the public will be horrified if this is true.

 

I am specifically concerned about the uncomfortably close relationship between council officials, BAE and its agents in dealing with Labour councillors' challenges.  It is clear from the emails that "political feedback" was provided by council officials to BAE's agents and there was an expectation from the agents that more would be forthcoming.  Such behaviour makes us question the probity of the entire Core Strategy process.  I shall certainly be expressing my anger and concerns to the Planning Inspector."

 

To see the emails obtained by a member of the public through Freedom of information, visit http://www.sglabour.org.uk/labour-fury-at-dodgy-dossier