A LONG standing councillor's political future hangs in the balance after she was declared bankrupt, the Citizen can reveal.

Labour member Veronica Afrin, one of three councillors representing Saint Matthew's ward, was declared bankrupt on July 28.

Her predicament leaves the Labour Party, which is desperate to hang onto to its three seat majority, in turmoil.

If national rules, which dictate that anyone with a bankruptcy order against their name must not hold office, are followed, Coun Afrin will be forced to resign and a by-election will be held for her seat.

Preston Borough Council officials have confirmed to the Citizen that Mrs Afrin's case is being investigated. A report is being completed for town clerk Jim Carr.

He told the Citizen: "We are aware of the situation involving Mrs Afrin and a report is being compiled.

"Normally, if a bankruptcy order is issued against a councillor, they are disqualified from holding office."

If Labour were to lose the seat, which Mrs Afrin has held since 1979, they would have a majority of just one in Preston, making it a struggle to pass any contentious issues.

Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Bill Chadwick, says it is vital the matter is dealt with swiftly. He said: "We don't want to make capital out of personal misfortune but the law must take its course.

"Disqualification must take place quickly to ensure that the council's interests are best protected and so a by-election can be facilitated immediatley.

"As a party we will have no hesitation in contesting the seat. After next year's full election, I have no doubt that it will be a hung council."

Conservative leader Joe Hood shared Coun Chadwick's view. He added: "It is for the town clerk to do his job quickly so the process is dealt with swiftly."

Mrs Afrin was unavailable for comment, while her leader, Coun Peter Rankin, will be away on holiday in Turkey until August 19.

Under bankruptcy order rules, Mrs Afrin, of Navigation Way, Ashton, is not allowed to apply for credit or run a business. She is involved with Fulwood Park Properties and all debts due to her are being sent to the official receivers, based in Lytham St Annes.

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