North Lanarkshire Council launches investigation into 'serious allegations' of corruption

North Lanarkshire Council has launched an inquiry into serious allegations of corruption relating to its procurement processes.

The allegations were made anonymously in a letter to the council leader, Jim Logue.

An investigation is currently underway by the council’s internal audit team and Police Scotland have been made aware of the allegations.

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Logue said: "These allegations, which are detailed, concern some of the council's procurement processes. If true, they are extremely serious.

"I immediately instructed Paul Jukes, the chief executive, to launch an investigation. That investigation, led by the council's internal audit team, is already underway.

“Should the auditors find anything which substantiates these allegations that evidence will immediately be handed over to Police Scotland.

The auditors will have access to all files held by any part of the council and all IT systems.

He could not comment further while the investigation is underway, but added: "It is essential that the people of North Lanarkshire are able to have full confidence in the way the council conducts its business and I am determined that we are transparent at all times.

“Although these are currently unsubstantiated, anonymous allegations, I believe that it is right to carry out a full investigation and share any evidence which comes to light with the police.”