SUPERMARKET chain Tesco have been asked what work they secured from a councillor at the centre of a lobbying row.
Newcastle Central MP Chi Onwurah is the latest to question the role of city Liberal Democrat councillor Greg Stone.
A national newspaper sting at the beginning of the week showed Mr Stone telling undercover reporters of the “tricks of the trade” used to secure planning permission.
While Mr Stone says his work for planning consultation Indigo Public Affairs does not involve applications from within Newcastle, questions have been raised over his close links to nearby developments. In the secret recording, Mr Stone allegedly refers to Tesco as one of the company’s clients.
Ms Onwurah, a shadow cabinet minister, says she wants to know if the supermarket firm which has several North East stores and developments, approves of the techniques Mr Stone talks about.
In her letter to the company’s chief executive, she says: “I was not aware at the time of our meeting that you were employing a local councillor to advise you, if indeed you were.
“I am sure you would agree that stories of this type damage public confidence in elected representatives to do their job honestly and transparently.
“As you are aware, all three major political parties committed to bring in a register of lobbyists in their 2010 manifestoes. It was also in the Coalition Agreement. I wonder if you would be able to share with us a list of the companies you employ to lobby on your behalf?
“Could you also tell me if you are aware of the Code of Conduct for lobbyists and comment on whether you feel it is appropriate to use an elected member to lobby elected authorities?”
Indigo has denied any inappropriate behaviour.
A spokesman said: “The method we use is to take the time to identify the neighbours, and other people who will be affected by a proposed development and find out what they want. Indigo Public Affairs creates a channel of communication between developers and local communities. “
Tesco did not wish to comment on the contents of the letter from Ms Onwurah, though it is understood Mr Stone has not worked for the supermarket chain.
