Woking MP calls for ex-council chief to have OBE removed

THE “chief architect” behind the financial collapse of Woking Borough Council should be stripped of his OBE for services to local government, the town’s MP has said.

- By CHRIS CAULFIELD Local democracy reporter

In 2023, the borough council declared itself effectively bankrupt with debts expected to pass £2.6billion on the back of a failed regeneration scheme.

It has led to some communities resembling a 'bomb site', heaped huge tax rises on residents' bills and a gutting of popular public services.

Now, the town's MP has said one of the drivers of Woking's financial decisions should be held accountable. In February, the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) announced it was looking into the “professional standards” of two “individual accountants” - one of whom is Ray Morgan in respect of Woking Borough Council's operations and investment activities.