WELCOME To Yorkshire has confirmed it will carry out two independent investigations into claims of bullying and expenses abuse during Sir Gary Verity’s tenure as chief executive.
The board of the tourism organisation is facing mounting pressure to release more details about the shock revelation that its high-profile leader had stood down, citing health reasons.
Welcome to Yorkshire confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that two external, independent organisations will be appointed to carry out investigations into claims about Sir Gary.
It also said the Board had written to West Yorkshire Police.
Mr McMillan had previously said the board didn’t believe that Sir Gary’s expenses required police investigation.
One will look into concerns around expenses and the other into behaviour, since Sir Gary’s appointment in 2008.
A Welcome to Yorkshire spokeswoman said: “The findings of these investigations, which will be completed in a thorough and timely manner, will be made public.
“The board has written to West Yorkshire Police to inform them of these investigations.”
As part of both of the investigations, Welcome to Yorkshire’s policies, procedures and governance will be assessed, and where required, recommendations for improvements will be made.
Welcome to Yorkshire board member Deborah Egan OBE said: “Welcome to Yorkshire is a responsible organisation which has a duty to be transparent and accountable.
“As soon as the independent organisations have been appointed, anyone who believes they have been affected by these issues will be invited to come forward.
“They will be fully supported, and all accounts will be treated in the strictest of confidence.”
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