Mileage bungle ‘clerical error’

Clive Grunshaw, who was investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Commission over discrepancies in his claims as a county councillor, has revealed he has now paid back an undisclosed sum after receiving, in error, mileage expenses at a higher rate than he was entitled to.

It is not known how much has been overclaimed or how long he had been receiving them but today the former Labour county councillor accused critics of running a ‘smear’ campaign against him.

He said: “I deplore the latest attempts to smear me over allegations relating to my expenses. For the record, expense claims are collated by a senior member of my staff who completes the form on my behalf.

“I do check them for accuracy for the mileage – which is not in dispute.

“Recently, however, I was informed of a clerical error, not made by me and of which I was entirely 
unaware, which has resulted in an overpayment. I immediately asked for this to be rectified.”

He continued: “That is the full extent of this matter.

“Any suggestions to the contrary are blatant lies and misinformation.”

The latest revelation comes just days after the announcement of the departure of Mr Grunshaw’s £120,000-a-year chief executive Miranda Carruthers-Watt last week. Mr Grunshaw has announced he will review his support arrangements, which involve a deputy PCC, three assistant PCCs and 12 other staff.