Councillors rally around former candidate
Tuesday 13th April 2010, 11:32AM BST.
Councillors today rallied round a Shropshire Liberal Democrats candidate who has been forced to withdraw from the General Election battle.
David Murray withdrew his claim to contest The Wrekin seat after police launched an investigation into an allegation of “historical sexual abuse” made against him.
The 71-year-old from Ashgrove, in Albrighton, was elected on to Shifnal Town Council in February.
Today mayor Councillor Les Jones said: “It’s only an allegation at the moment, we will have to wait and see what happens.”
Councillor Jones said that he would remain a Shifnal town councillor at present and no decision about his future on the authority would be taken at this stage.
Councillor Eileen Briscoe, from Shifnal Town Council, said: “I’m absolutely stunned by this allegation, I find it hard to believe.”
Mr Murray was unavailable for comment this morning.
Meanwhile, Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg has said Mr Murray was right to stand down.
Mr Clegg, speaking to reporters in Northampton yesterday, said: “I take these allegations very, very seriously.
“I think the right thing has been done.
“The candidate has stood down and it’s now in the hands of the police.
“The allegations are serious but I can’t tell you where they have come from.”
Mr Clegg added: “It’s now very much for the police to do the job that only they can do.”
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