The Liberal Democrats have been accused of “duping” voters in an election because their victorious candidate is not an official member of the party.

Labour says the Lib Dems “need to come clean” about how and why they selected Mo Rattab – who has also faced calls to resign after it emerged he is a convicted burglar.

Cllr Rattab won a seat on Abbots Langley Parish Council in early September after winning a by-election in Bedmond, where he lives.

Three Rivers district Labour leader Steve Cox, who acted as agent for third-placed John Cooper in the election, claims it is “morally wrong” that Lib Dem voters were asked to vote for someone who is not a Lib Dem member.

Read more: 'Lack of transparency': new councillor is former burglar and drug addict

Watford Observer: Three Rivers District Council Labour leader and election agent in the by-election Steve CoxThree Rivers District Council Labour leader and election agent in the by-election Steve Cox (Image: Three Rivers District Council)

Cllr Cox said: "It seems he was randomly plucked off the street out of nowhere, posed for a few photos, given a yellow rosette and somehow chosen as their official candidate with no vetting process whatsoever.”

He claimed the selection process was “shrouded in mystery” and criticised the Lib Dems for still backing him despite discovering “problems with his candidature” pre-election.

A Lib Dem spokesperson said: “Cllr Rattab is a long-term supporter of the Liberal Democrats, who was approved to stand in an appropriate manner.” 

Watford Observer: A Liberal Democrat campaign leaflet for Cllr Mo Rattab ahead of the Bedmond by-electionA Liberal Democrat campaign leaflet for Cllr Mo Rattab ahead of the Bedmond by-election (Image: Cllr Steve Cox)

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