LABOUR councillors at odds with their party over the sell-off of Hyndburn Council's freehold interest in the Arndale Centre, Accrington, will not face any disciplinary action.

But Coun Dave Massey may be disciplined over a separate issue.

A letter has been sent to the outspoken Church councillor inviting him to appear before officers of the the Labour Group on Monday.

The nature of the complaint against him is not being disclosed.

Labour Group secretary Coun Chris Reid said: "It is an internal matter. It is in no way connected to his vote or views on the Arndale issue."

Coun Massey voted against the proposed sell-off to finance new council offices and a small number of Labour colleagues abstained at a behind-closed-doors meeting of the council. Coun Reid said no action was to be taken against any Labour councillor who abstained or voted against.

"The Labour Group does not operate like a dictatorship. We don't bully or intimidate.

"The group was aware of these people's feelings beforehand. We can understand people with principles.

"It was a very very big issue for the council and there were strong feelings about it."

Coun Massey said he knew nothing about being asked to appear before group officers.

"I have not received a letter and find it rather annoying and a bit offensive they talk to a third party before me.

"It would have been polite to inform me first before commenting to the Press.

"If it is not the Arndale issue, I have not got a clue. My conscience is clear. The things I have done have been in the best interests of the people of Hyndburn."

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