Leader hits back over ‘fake news’ with threat of watchdog

Deposed leader Bob Myles has come out fighting over the “fake news” which he has come under fire over – and threatened to report critics to Scotland’s council watchdog.

The Brechin and Edzell Independent said: “I am at a loss why Councillor Boyd wishes to conduct a personal vendetta against me.

“In the councillors’ code of conduct it is clearly stated they should treat all councillors and members of the public with respect, even if they disagree with their views.

“Breaching this code of conduct can result in disciplinary sanctions from the Standards Commission, and I am seriously considering referring Mr Boyd over these comments.

“To clarify the fake news stated by Councillor Boyd, it has been an open secret the current Angus Council administration planned to assess its effectiveness a year into its tenure.

“Are we best using the talents we have in the council? Do the current convenors have the time and experience to carry forward the changes that have been and still need to be progressed?

“I was asked to take on the role as leader last year to run the council through the most difficult financial times local government has ever faced.

“The time may be right to let someone else continue the good work we started, but until we are confident a new team is ready and able to take over the reins I will continue as leader with the full support of the administration.

“Mr Boyd’s ill-informed comments about Carnoustie Golf Links Management Committee does them an extreme disservice, as all members of that committee work tirelessly with little reward to make the Carnoustie Golf Course the world leader it is and the fact that the Open is returning to Carnoustie this year is testament to that.

“All board members will be taking on onerous roles and responsibilities before, during and after the Open Championship which in no way could be described as a ‘jolly’.”