QUESTIONS were raised about an MP’s input into a meeting to discuss the future of a seaside town.

UKIP councillor Steve Turner asked why Redcar MP Anna Turley was allowed to use council officers to lead the campaign.

A public meeting was held last month to garner residents’ opinions on what needs to be done to breathe new life into the town

However, speaking at full council, the Longbeck councillor queried why Ms Turley was allowed to take over the initiative that was first mooted by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

He asked: “The minutes in the Cabinet papers regarding the Redcar town centre meeting, said that the officers would be facilitating the meeting supported by councillors, so why was the MP allowed to take over the meeting using it as a public relations exercise?”

But Councillor Carl Quartermain, the cabinet member for jobs, skills and leisure, said he was happy for anybody to fight for the betterment of the town.

“I’m a little disappointed at this question,” he said. “I want to make this very clear, this was Anna Turley’s initiative - the High Street meeting. I went to see Anna Turley for support for betterment to Redcar town.

“Officers did attend this event, which was well received. If members want to action any initiatives themselves, there’s nothing stopping them doing so.”

In response Cllr Turner said: “I just want some clarification whether it’s something our cabinet is driving forward or something our MP is driving forward.”

Cllr Quartermain confirmed the meeting was an initiative from the MP.