Police have arrested five individuals in connection with allegations of fraud during local elections in Tameside, the council area represented by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner. The arrests, made by Greater Manchester Police, involve four men and one woman aged between 23 and 47, as part of an investigation into how candidates were nominated in the St Peter's ward.
Background of the Allegations
The arrests follow claims that fake independent candidates were planted in two council wards to split the opposition vote, benefiting the Reform party. Labour had previously denied these accusations, with a spokesperson for Ms Rayner, who represents the Ashton-under-Lyne constituency, dismissing the idea of her involvement as 'obvious nonsense'. The spokesperson stated that Ms Rayner had 'no input or involvement in the selection of candidates for any of the wards within her constituency'.
Investigation Details
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they received reports of concerns about candidates in the St Peter's ward before and after the May 7 election. A force spokesperson said: 'Following initial inquiries last week, we have launched a full investigation into the allegations. The work is specifically investigating the process of how candidates were put forward and represented in the ward, and if this adhered to the relevant legislation and electoral procedures.'
Election Outcome
In the election, Reform secured 18 seats on Tameside council, while Labour was reduced to just one seat. A Labour spokesperson told the Manchester Evening News: 'These allegations are completely baseless and false. Our Labour team are focussed on what really matters to residents – delivering for residents and protecting services, not playing political games.' The party has reportedly reported 'misinformation' to both the police and the Electoral Commission.
