Ombudsman drops Labour-linked barrister from bias review

Michelle Morris has been in post as the public services ombudsman for Wales since 2022

Wales' public services watchdog says it will appoint a new person to lead an independent review into allegations of political bias.

Welsh Tories questioned the original appointment of senior barrister James Goudie KC, who has long-standing links to Labour, to conduct the review.

The Public Services Ombudsman now says to continue with Mr Goudie would "lead to a lack of confidence".

The Welsh Conservatives said it was the "right decision".

The review was commissioned following the resignation of an ombudsman investigator.

Sinead Cook allegedly made comments on social media including one that used offensive language about Conservatives.

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The review's remit will include an examination of cases where Ms Cook and her team decided not to investigate.

It will not look at cases previously investigated by former investigator.

'Confidence essential'

In a statement, ombudsman Michelle Morris said: "It is essential that this review has the confidence of the Senedd and stakeholders across local government."

"Whilst I remain confident that James Goudie KC would have carried out the review with integrity, impartiality and professionalism, it is evident that concerns have been expressed by several people.

"I have listened to these views and have concluded that to continue would lead to a lack of confidence in the review and its findings."

She added: "I have therefore reconsidered the appointment and will be seeking another person to lead this work instead."

The ombudsman's office investigates complaints made by the public about public bodies and councillors accused of breaking their code of conduct.

Its guiding principles include impartiality and independence.

Sam Rowlands, Welsh Conservative shadow minister for local government, said: "This is the right decision from the Ombudsman, who risked undermining the probe with this appointment."