THE chief executive of South Lakeland District Council has been cleared of any misconduct in a report following his nine-month suspension, reports Michaela Robinson-Tate.

It is understood that a local government specialist, brought in to conduct an independent investigation, has recommended Philip Cunliffe's handling of the council's pay and grading structure does not warrant any disciplinary action.

However, he goes on to recommend that Mr Cunliffe and the council explore the option of the chief executive's early retirement.

The recommendations, made by the expert, who is believed to be former chief executive of Westminster City Council Rodney Brooke, are to be discussed at an SLDC meeting today (Friday) due to be held behind closed doors.

Council chiefs - who have promised to produce a report into the issue next month - this week refused to divulge any details of Mr Brooke's findings ahead of today's meeting.

However, in addition to the recommendations about Mr Cunliffe, The Westmorland Gazette can disclose that councillors are expected to discuss Mr Brooke's findings about director of finance Jack Jones, who has also been suspended for nine months.

It is understood Mr Brooke has reported that he believes Mr Jones is guilty of misconduct.

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