A FORMER Labour councillor who is facing charges of taking and possessing indecent images of children is now sitting as an independent on West Dunbartonshire Council.
Councillor Craig Edward was elected to the Clydebank Central ward under the Scottish Labour banner as the group ousted the SNP-led council in May’s local elections.
In September Edward was arrested and charged with two alleged offences after a raid by police at his home in the town.
He entered no plea when he appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court on September 27 and was released on bail pending a further court appearance on a date yet to be confirmed.
Following enquiries made to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, it is understood that the case against Edward on the allegations remains active.
The Post reports that Edward was suspended from the Labour Party pending the conclusion of the criminal proceedings.
This means by default Edward becomes an independent member of the council.
A spokesperson for West Dunbartonshire Council said: "Cllr Edward is a member of council and is entitled to attend meetings of the full council and any other committee or body of which he is a member."
Edward was previously the Housing and Community Services convener.
However, the Post reports he is not holding any public surgeries at the moment.
On Twitter, Edward has proclaimed himself as "the only independent councillor at West Dunbartonshire Council".
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