A council leader will not face an investigation over allegations he sent an “abusive” email to a parliamentary candidate.

Jemima Bland, Lib Dem candidate for East Worthing and Shoreham, accused Adur District Council leader Neil Parkin of breaking the council’s code of conduct but a monitoring officer dismissed her complaint.

Coun Parkin said the complaint was politically motivated and the allegation was not been
considered serious enough to warrant action.

Ms Bland she was pleased the monitoring officer had recognised Mr Parkin’s response to a letter from residents was inappropriate but said she was disappointed the matter had not
been investigated further.