Local politics: Councillor on fraud charge

Coun Robert Payne, who represents the Keighley West ward, has resigned from the Conservative group on Bradford Council. Yesterday he was listed as an Independent on the council website.

Coun Anne Hawkesworth, leader of the Conservative group, said: "Coun Robert Payne has resigned from the Conservative group on Bradford City Council for personal reasons.

"The Conservative group will not be commenting on the personal circumstances of Coun Payne which are subject to legal proceedings."

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "A Keighley man is due to appear at Bingley Magistrates' Court on September 23 charged with fraud by false representation."