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17
Nov 2023
Commissioner complains over Tory mayoral candidate ‘inappropriate language’ claim
Police commissioner Zoe Metcalfe lodged a formal complaint over Tory mayoral candidate Keane Duncan after she claimed he used “inappropriate language” to influence a decision on the recruitment of a chief constable.
Ms Metcalfe, who is also a Conservative, claimed Mr Duncan tried to “influence or seek to control” the decision over whether to start the appointment process.
Mr Duncan denied using inappropriate language and said a formal investigation had found no cause for action.
According to a freedom of information request published on the commissioner’s website, the pair had a phone conversation on September 24 on the subject.
The conversation took place ahead of a decision regarding the recruitment process for a chief constable at North Yorkshire Police after the incumbent, Lisa Winward, announced she will retire on March 31.
Ms Metcalfe is expected appoint a permanent successor to the role despite the North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner’s office being abolished when a Mayor for York and North Yorkshire is elected on May 2, 2024.
It means the new mayor will inherit a chief constable whose appointment was overseen by Ms Metcalfe.
Ms Metcalfe claimed Mr Duncan had sought to influence the decision and used “inappropriate language”.
In a letter to Mr Duncan, which was disclosed under the freedom of information act, she said she intended to lodge a complaint to the Conservative Party following the conversation.
In a statement to the Stray Ferret, Ms Metcalfe said:
'No wrongdoing'
In response, Mr Duncan said the pair had a frank phone call during which they disagreed on several points.
He denied using inappropriate language and said an investigation had now been completed into the matter.
Mr Duncan said:
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A Conservative Party spokesperson confirmed that an investigation was carried out and found no wrongdoing.
They said:
Mr Duncan was selected as the Conservative candidate for York and North Yorkshire Mayor ahead of Ms Metcalfe at a meeting in July. He is also the North Yorkshire councillor responsible for transport.
Pateley Bridge businessman, Keith Tordoff, has also announced that he will stand as an independent candidate for mayor.
Meanwhile, the Green Party has selected North Yorkshire councillor, Kevin Foster, to run for the position.
The Liberal Democrats and Labour have yet to declare candidates.
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