Time to consider behaviour of some in elections (From Ilkley Gazette)

Time to consider behaviour of some in elections

9:32pm Thursday 10th May 2012 in Our view

Last week’s local elections were certainly full of shocks and surprises – and may well change the face of this district for some time to come.

The outcome on the ‘no’ to an elected mayor vote has also opened up all manner of opportunities to develop the campaign to break away from the control of Bradford.

In this neck of the woods, it was in the main solid, honest debate with candidates showing respect. The pages of this newspaper and website carried varying points of view, on several of the issues raised.

The only exception to this was in the Craven Ward.

A decision was made by this newspaper that it would not allow itself to be used as a conduit for spreading claims and allegations about the conduct of former Tory executive member Adrian Naylor who was standing as an Independent, and was ultimately successful.

If his opponents had something to say – they should have come out and said it in public. That challenge still applies – put up or shut up.

This paper will continue to investigate wrongdoings and take up the cudgels when necessary – but will never be the manipulated head of the muck-rake.

Some of the cynical tactics used in the build-up to the election were an affront to fair play and our hard-fought-for democratic system. A number of deeply-concerned electors contacted us to express their dismay at the situation.

Central office of the party has distanced itself from the issue making it clear published statements said to be made on behalf of the party were not sanctioned by the party. A regional inquiry needs to be held to establish what went on and to take appropriate action.

At least it ended with the biters being bitten.