CONCERNS OVER CONSULTANTS RAISED

2.34.53pm GMT Thu 10th Jan 2008

Issues raised by an article in the financial pages of 'The Mail on Sunday' newspaper concerning the activities of a firm of consultants used by Torbay Council are being taken up with the Chief Executive by the Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group Steve Darling.

The article, entitled "Grant Thornton 'looted us' says Italian casualty", contains allegations about the activities of accountancy firm Grant Thornton International. Grant Thornton is currently engaged in helping the Conservative administration to 'reshape' Torbay Council.

Councillor Steve Darling said, "Many members of the public and members of staff may well have read the article in the Sunday newspaper and have concerns. I have written to the Council's Chief Executive asking her if she is able to allay people's concerns about this. The Council is spending a large amount of public money with Grant Thornton - up to nearly £150,000 by the end of this financial year. The Council will be asking for tenders for further work next year which could mean a further £750,000 being spent with Grant Thornton. It is only right that the issues raised in the national media should be dealt with."