AN MP has condemned “bullying” at Christchurch council.

In an adjournment debate in the House of Commons on Thursday, Christchurch MP Christopher Chope said there had been “a lot of workplace bullying” surrounding the super council debate, with “minority views” being “oppressed”.

He had called the debate on the “proposed abolition” of Christchurch and East Dorset councils as a result of the ongoing local government reorganisation, which could see Dorset’s nine local authorities reshaped into just two unitary councils.

In Parliament, Mr Chope said: “Will the minister emphasise the importance of trying to achieve consensus, because there has been a lot of workplace bullying in Christchurch council, and we have seen, perhaps, elements of it in the chamber this evening?

“Surely it is wrong that what may be a minority should be oppressed: surely it is important that minority views can be heard?”

Christchurch councillor David Jones told the Daily Echo he had personal experience of what Mr Chope alleged.

“I can confirm that there have been attempts to apply pressure to me in relation to motions I have sought to bring to council concerning local government reform, and I can also confirm that it has been suggested to me that I might find life easier if I were to leave the group,” he said.

“I understand that other councillors have also had unpleasant experiences.”

He said there had been “obstruction after obstruction” placed in the way of members seeking to discuss the reorganisation proposals.

“What concerns me more are the persistent attempts of the leadership to muzzle discussion.

“Every time those of us who have concerns about the process have attempted to raise the matter in council or committee we have encountered obstruction and resistance.”

“To produce a debate on the intangible benefits and costs of a greater Bournemouth council it took a special meeting of scrutiny and policy review committee called by the members and an extraordinary council, again called by the members.

“That extraordinary council asked for a report at each council meeting on the reorganisation: not one has been presented.”

Council leader Ray Nottage denied the claims. “We strongly refute any allegations of workplace bullying at Christchurch Borough Council,” he said.

“Open, constructive and robust debate is part of politics, not just at Christchurch Borough Council, but all councils. By discussing issues we are able to make key decisions.”

“Given that all nine councils in Dorset are currently looking at options for the future of vital local government services we would expect a range of views to be held by members.

“I am looking forward to further debate on this important issue with my Christchurch colleagues when we meet on December 13.”

Chief executives of the nine authorities will on Monday release a report into the results of the super council consultation, as well as a financial assessment by Local Partnerships, and a ‘Case for Change’ prepared by PricewaterhouseCoopers.