Investigation into councillor accused of leaking confidential information dropped

An investigation into a Glasgow councillor accused of leaking confidential information has been dropped as witnesses have come forward saying he didn’t actually reveal the private details.

The Standards Commission announced yesterday that it will take no further action against councillor George Redmond, as it is not “proportionate” or in the “public interest.”

A complaint was made after a fellow Labour councillor claimed he had told other party members at a group meeting about confidential voting preferences to decide the appointment of new CEO Susanne Millar.

Scottish Greens councillor Jon Molyneux reported the allegation to the Standards Commission in April 2024 over concerns it breached the councillor code of conduct.

Former Labour city leader Redmond denied the claims, and several other witnesses who were present at the March 2024 meeting have come forward backing up his denial, according to the Standards Commission.

A hearing was due to take place on November 20, but that was postponed after the Calton local politician suffered a heart attack.

Now having considered the evidence, the Standards Commission said it was not “necessary or appropriate” for the Ethical Standards Commissioner (ESC) to continue investigating.

Councillor Redmond was accused of leaking the voting preferences of the members of the Council’s Appointment of Senior Officers Committee at a party group meeting on March 27, 2024 and after a council meeting the following day. The information was then covered in a press report.

Witnesses who confirmed the leaks didn’t take place were willing to appear at a potential hearing while councillor Redmond also intended to give evidence denying the accusations.

The Standards Commission decision notice said: “Having considered the terms of the ESC’s reports and the submissions and evidence received from the Respondent, the Standards Commission did not consider that it was necessary or appropriate to direct the ESC to undertake any further investigation into the matter.”

It highlighted how the “events that were the subject of the complaint had occurred almost two years ago,” noting “that this could have an adverse impact on the reliability of witness evidence, given that memories tend to fade over time.”

It added: “The Standards Commission further noted that only one witness recalled the respondent disclosing the information and that this was only after she was reminded, during the ESC’s investigation, of the dates and timeline.

“The Standards Commission acknowledged that the respondent was suffering from a serious and long-term health condition that restricted his ability to fulfil his role as a councillor. It noted that the stress of preparing for, and participating in, a hearing could exacerbate this.

“In the circumstances, and having taken into account the above factors, the Standards Commission concluded that it was no longer proportionate or in the public interest for it to hold a hearing. The Standards Commission determined, therefore, to take no action on the referral.”

Councillor Redmond has been contacted for comment.