"Questions about Chief Executive must be answered" say Liberal Democrats

5.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 17th Jun 2009

Tower Hamlets Liberal Democrats today called upon the Leader of the Council, Lutfur Rahman to clarify the situation relating to the absence of the Chief Executive, Martin Smith.

As stories in the East London Advertiser continue to report that Mr Smith has been forced out by the Labour Party executive - at great expense to the borough - Cllr Stephanie Eaton commented: "It is disgraceful that the Labour Executive is apparently taking decisions but not bothering to tell residents or other Councillors about the situation. We need to know: Has Martin Smith been asked to resign? If so, why? If so, how much is it going to cost the council?"

Councillor Eaton today released a statement on behalf of the entire Liberal Democrat group: "We have enormous respect for Martin Smith, who has served the Borough diligently and conscientiously as Chief Finance officer and as Chief Executive. He has led the Council to numerous awards and seen the Audit Commission award the Borough a Four star "excellent" rating. He works hard for all sections of the community and has a clear understanding of the challenges facing the Borough such as health inequality, affordable housing and recycling. If it is true that Martin is leaving the authority before he would wish, then the people of Tower Hamlets have lost an dedicated officer with valuable expertise, experience and judgement."

The Liberal Democrat group has today called for the majority Labour group to explain their actions and clarify the position of the Chief Executive, Martin Smith.

The story in the East London Advertiser can be read here:

http://www.eastlondonadvertiser.co.uk/content/towerhamlets/advertiser/news/