Altercation between Peterborough City Councillors prompts formal complaints

The incident happened at the end of a Peterborough City Council Full Council meeting on Monday and involved Councillors David Seaton and John Shearman.

Conservative member for Hampton Vale Cllr Seaton, cabinet member for resources, was heard shouting in the council chamber.

He was then seen remonstrating with Cllr Shearman, Labour member for Park Ward.

The pair had both spoken at the end of the meeting on the final item regarding members’ allowance, with Cllr Shearman suggesting that those who had received the most votes in elections receive a higher allowance in future years.

Regarding his altercation with Cllr Seaton, Cllr Shearman said: “Following the closure of the council meeting held May 23rd, an incident, instigated by Councillor David Seaton, occurred between myself and Cllr Seaton.

“In view of the fact I am submitting a formal complaint to the chief executive of the council over Cllr Seaton’s outrageous behaviour, it would be inappropriate to make a comment at this time.”

Cllr Seaton said: “I have submitted a formal complaint to the appropriate authority about the actions of Cllr Shearman.

“I will not comment further until that has been investigated.”