AN MP has accused Dorset County Council of breaking election law by distributing a newsletter she believes could influence voters before polling day.

Mid Dorset and North Poole member Annette Brooke has called for a full investigation after the council sent out its quarterly Your Dorset magazine – after the notice of the election on Tuesday, April 28.

Proactive publicity for candidates is not allowed between this point and election day.

Mrs Brooke claims the magazine, which includes positive stories about the Tory-majority council, breaks that rule. The council strongly denies wrongdoing.

She said: “Influencing the result of an election through public funds, is in direct contravention of the law and clear statutory guidance, is a shameful waste of taxpayer’s money and in contempt of the democratic process.”

She objected to the “principle of putting out something praising the council” during this period, adding: “I don’t know if it’s cock-up or conspiracy, but I think it’s a serious error of judgement – whether it is breaking the law or not.”

Dorset county councillor Susan Jefferies also complained, adding: “I am shocked that public money is being used by this Conservative council to try to influence the outcome of the elections.”

David Jenkins, county council chief executive and returning officer, said advice had been taken from an independent QC who specialises in electoral law on the issue.

He said: “The QC has advised that he does not consider that any electoral law or rules about local government publicity have been breached and that Your Dorset does not appear to be designed to affect public support for a political party.”

Sue Hyde, the county council’s head of communications, said national guidance on local government publicity had been followed, and particular care was during the pre-election period.

She added: “Local council taxpayers are entitled to receive continual information about the services the council provides.”