Senior Tory councillor reinstated after suspension

Phil Larratt represents the Nene Valley ward to the south-east of Northampton

A leading Conservative councillor has been reinstated to his cabinet role after being suspended by the party last month pending an investigation.

Phil Larratt is cabinet member for highways and transport at West Northamptonshire Council.

Council leader Adam Brown said the reinstatement followed an investigation into allegations of inappropriate conduct at a recent public meeting.

The "period of suspension allowed us to assess the facts and gather evidence in a professional manner, and ultimately establish that those accusations were false", Mr Brown said.

At the time of the suspension the Conservative group said the investigation would take no longer than 21 days.

The group said a thorough investigation, that involved gathering evidence from multiple parties, had established that in all likelihood the allegation against Mr Larratt was completely without foundation.

Following the suspension Mr Larratt sat as an independent councillor but has been reinstated into the Conservative group.

Mr Brown added: "I know that Mr Larratt will be itching to get back to work and we look forward to welcoming him back into the fold."

Mr Larratt has been contacted for comment.