Who claimed it never happened?
He admitted it and explained why?
Mr Goacher says his answer is reasonable as that what other councils accept but Coventry rules are different.
Are they saying he broke the rule but unintentionally and the rule is different in different councils so he hasn't broke the codes of ethics?
I don't really get it?
Do you actually understand the process they've been through? Not having a go BTW! SISU made the complaint and Goacher came in to do an independent report. That report then went to a council committee, of which I think all but one member was Labour, and based on that report they delivered their response to the complaint.
The report states that CCC code of conduct requires his interest to be declared. Mutton stated he believed it didn't have to be declared, which along with declaring it after it was highlighted shows that he was in the wrong.
The committee then gave a verdict that "We have concluded that Coun Mutton did not fail to disclose his interests”.
Its bonkers. it couldn't possibly be clearer that he failed to disclose his interest! Now if they said he had done wrong but there were mitigating circumstances such as he received no benefit or other councils work different and therefore there would be no further action then fair enough but they are outright saying it didn't happen when everyone else, including Mutton, accepts that it did.
From there how can you have any faith in any of their other conclusions?