Mark Pack

A quick round-up of stories in the news recently:

In January 2010 the Electoral Commission, the independent party finance watchdog, began a case review following concerns raised in the independent auditor’s opinion about the adequacy of the 2008 statement of accounts of the British National Party.

The case has now become an investigation. However, it is important to note – particularly during an election period – that no conclusion has been reached and therefore no assumption should be made as to whether a breach of the rules has occurred. (Electoral Commission)

A [WALSALL] CONSERVATIVE councillor has been suspended and is due in court next month to face allegations of electoral fraud during the May 2008 elections.

The West Midlands Conservative Party confirmed that Palfrey ward Cllr Mohammed Munir was suspended. (Birmingham Wired)

A FORMER Calderdale Conservative councillor has gone on trial accused of election fraud.
Mohammed Saghir, 63, of Gibbet Street, Halifax, is charged with five offences of applying for a proxy vote as some other person.

Saghir, who is being tried in his absence, allegedly applied for the votes for Park ward for the local election of May 2008 when his son, Shakar, stood as an Independent candidate. (Halifax Courier)