A COUNCILLOR under investigation by the Ombudsman has been suspended from his party.

Fairwood ward member Paxton Hood-Williams has been suspended from the Welsh Conservatives while the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales looks into allegations of support for votes.

Lib Dem Swansea Council leader Chris Holley is also under investigation as is his deputy, Independent John Hague and police have been called in by the Ombudsman to consider whether a criminal investigation should ensue.

The news comes the day after the Evening Post revealed former Lord Mayor, Gower councillor Richard Lewis, was also being investigated by the watchdog over a separate issue, believed to be relating to a planning application from the Oxwich Bay Hotel to Swansea Council.

A spokesman for the Welsh Conservatives said: “We understand that the inquiry is focusing on the conduct of three councillors, namely the Swansea Liberal Democrat council leader Chris Holley, his deputy John Hague and Paxton Hood-Williams. These are serious allegations and the Welsh Conservative Party has suspended Councillor Hood-Williams from the party until such time as the Ombudsman has made a ruling or come to a final decision.”

The Post understands the complaint is over alleged discussions about support for the ruling Lib-Dem coalition — in particular giving extra spending to projects in certain Conservative wards.

Mr Hood-Williams said: “It is normal party practice to temporarily suspend a member.

“This in no way affects my ability to carry out my full role in the council.

“I will be attending the full council meeting on Thursday.”

In addition, earlier this month Mayals councillor Rene Kinzett resigned as Tory party leader in Swansea Council, ahead of a planned no-confidence vote that had been called.

helen.keates@swwmedia.co.uk