Alicia Kearns MP for Rutland and Stamford Demands Answers from Liberal Democrats Over Councillor's Illegal Employment Fine
Alicia Kearns, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Stamford, has escalated her concerns regarding the recent £160,000 fine levied against Liberal Democrat Councillor Habib Rahman. Rahman, who serves on both South Kesteven District Council and Stamford Town Council, and is also the Liberal Democrats' candidate for the upcoming Lincolnshire County Council election in Stamford West, was fined for illegally employing four individuals at his curry house. Indian restaurant The Bombay Cottage in Scotgate, Stamford
In a move signaling serious dissatisfaction, Kearns has written directly to Liberal Democrat Leader Sir Ed Davey and South Kesteven District Councillor Harrish Bisnauthsing, the Leader of the Liberal Democrats at the district council, demanding answers about the party's handling of the situation.
"This is far below the conduct we expect of those representing our communities locally," Kearns stated in her public communication. She raised critical questions about Rahman's continued position as a sitting councillor and his nomination as a county council candidate, particularly considering the timing of the fine relative to the raid that uncovered the illegal employment.
Alicia Kearns' letter underscores the gravity of the situation, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability within the local political sphere. She is seeking clarification from the Rutland and South Lincolnshire Liberal Democrats regarding the duration of their awareness of the matter and the specific actions they have taken in response.
The substantial fine raises significant ethical and legal concerns, prompting widespread scrutiny of the Liberal Democrats' vetting and oversight procedures. The public is now awaiting the party's response, which will undoubtedly influence perceptions of their commitment to upholding high standards of conduct among their elected officials.
The questions Alicia Kearns poses are:
When did the Liberal Democrats become aware of the illegal employment practices at Councillor Rahman's curry house?
What specific actions have the Liberal Democrats taken to address this situation?
Why has Councillor Rahman remained a sitting councillor despite the serious nature of the offence?
What was the rationale behind nominating Councillor Rahman as a candidate for the Lincolnshire County Council election, given the prior knowledge of the raid?
The outcome of Kearns' inquiry will likely have significant implications for the upcoming local elections and the public's trust in local governance. The situation also raises wider questions about the responsibilities of political parties to ensure their candidates adhere to legal and ethical standards.
