TORIES on Worcester City Council have been quizzed over allegations about planning matters levelled by a former political colleague.

Councillor Gary Kibblewhite quit the Conservative administration in late April to become an Independent Conservative.

His departure left the Conservatives and Labour groups with 15 seats apiece.

The councillor - who represents the Bedwardine ward - has refused to speak publicly about his reasons for leaving the party.

But, in a letter leaked anonymously to the Evening News, written by Coun Kibblewhite, he told senior Conservative group members that he felt unable to continue as a party member.

The letter, confirmed by Coun Kibblewhite as genuine, referred to a group meeting two days before councillors had voted on applications by three supermarket chains for stores in Worcester.

Philip Betts, the city council's director of corporate services, said he interviewed Coun Kibblewhite after the councillor's resignation and took a statement from him.

"I've written to all the other Conservative members about allegations he made concerning the meeting on Sunday, February 25," said Mr Betts.

"I've only just completed my investigation and I'm not prepared to disclose my conclusions, as it would be unfair to speak to the Press before councillors are informed.

"However, I can say that my report will be discussed in open session at the governance committee on Tuesday, July 24."

The deputy leader of the council, Coun Stephen Inman, confirmed that the Conservatives had filled in questionnaires from Mr Betts.

But he did not know what his colleagues had said in response to the questions.

"There's no rule or code of conduct that says a group can't talk about a planning application," he said.

"What is important is that there's no Whip on planning matters. I hope Mr Betts will confirm that view, but I can't say any more until I see his report."