A RACIAL equality chief is to remain suspended from his post following an auditors' report.

Hyndburn and Rossendale Racial Equality Council director Mohammed Hanif was suspended from duty last month after claims he did not follow correct procedures when buying computer equipment for the organisation. Auditors from Hyndburn Council were called in by the REC's executive committee.

David Willsby, Hyndburn Council's head of corporate services said: "The equality council's executive committee has determined that in view of the serious concerns that remain outstanding, the suspension of the director should continue.

"The auditors produced a report which identified some concerns. In the light of those concerns and what the director has told us, those matters will now be investigated.

"The honorary treasurer is going to set up an investigation plan listing the things that need to be looked into. "Discussions have been held with the director and his solicitor. The police are not involved."

Mr Hanif, a former director of East Lancashire Training and Enterprise Council, joined the equality council as director last February. He lives in Brierfield where he is a town councillor.

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