Joe Harris, former leader of Cotswold District Council, has been fully cleared of any misconduct following a comprehensive investigation into a procurement-related counter fraud report. Harris, a Liberal Democrat councillor, was the unnamed individual referenced in the initial inquiry concerning the council’s communications and rebranding procurement process.
Despite the report finding no evidence of wrongdoing by Harris, he proactively referred himself to the council’s monitoring officer last year to ensure full transparency. The subsequent review, conducted by the monitoring officer in consultation with an independent advisor, confirmed that Harris did not breach the code of conduct.
The official decision highlights that Harris neither influenced the procurement outcome nor participated in evaluating or awarding contracts. There was no misuse of his position, exertion of pressure on officers, or personal gain. Crucially, no undeclared conflicts of interest were identified, and the investigation clarified that any procedural concerns were related solely to internal officer processes, not councillor actions.
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Welcoming the results, Harris expressed relief but also called on the council to acknowledge the damage caused by the earlier allegations and to issue a formal apology. He emphasized the toll the investigation and ensuing social media rumours have taken on him and his family.
“The investigation’s outcome clearly shows I did not breach the code of conduct,” Harris stated. “I came forward voluntarily to ensure transparency, but the implication of undeclared interests was incorrect. My partner’s employment by a bidding firm occurred months after the procurement process and was unrelated.”
He added, “Had I been interviewed during the original investigation, the misunderstanding could have been resolved much earlier, sparing everyone this lengthy ordeal.”
In light of the findings, Cotswold District Council has committed to improving its internal procurement processes. While these improvements address procedural issues, they do not pertain to any misconduct by Harris.
Council leader Mike Evemy acknowledged the investigation’s outcome and the strain it placed on Harris and his household. “We appreciate the pressure Joe has faced during this period,” Evemy remarked. “We will review the complaint’s conclusion with senior management and consider his request for an apology. Meanwhile, we have implemented a robust action plan to strengthen the council’s transparency and procurement processes, ensuring integrity moving forward.”