exclusive by Stuart Woledge

swoledge@thekmgroup.co.uk

A police investigation is under way into an allegation of impropriety concerning next month’s Kent County Council elections.

Earlier today, a Kent Police spokeswoman said: “Kent Police is investigating after concerns were raised surrounding election nomination papers.”

The precise details of what the allegations are about have not been made public.

However, it's understood one of the parties may have submitted nomination papers in the name of one or more candidates who do not exist.

KCC returning officer Geoff Wild said: “We are aware of the allegation, which is in the hands of the police.

“The council will not be making any further comment relating to any individual candidate while the investigation is under way.”

Mr Wild added: “When a returning officer receives a nomination form, they are legally required to consider those papers at face value.

“The returning officer is not permitted to investigate candidates or their particulars, other than to consider the papers submitted and ensure they are in order.

“Any candidate standing in a local government election is permitted to give a commonly used name.

“If they do, this name is used in place of their full name on official statements and ballot papers.

“Case law and guidance from the Electoral Commission requires that this name is considered only at face value.”