Eric Pickles asked to intervene in Isles of Scilly chief dispute

Image caption, Suspended Isles of Scilly Council's Chief Executive Philip Hygate denies any wrongdoing

28 November 2012

Local Government Minister Eric Pickles has been asked to appoint an investigator to probe the suspension of the Isles of Scilly Council's chief executive.

Philip Hygate was suspended in October. He denies any wrongdoing.

Secretary of State Mr Pickles has been asked by both sides to intervene because neither has been able to agree on an independent investigator.

Mr Pickles said he would reply to the request shortly.

Mr Hygate was suspended on full pay after a meeting of the council's Policy and Resources Committee on 30 October over "employment issues" relating to him.

The council said his suspension did not "constitute disciplinary action" and the allegations warranted independent investigation.

Mr Hygate has declined to comment further.