HAMPSHIRE County Council chairman Freddie Emery-Wallis has been arrested by police over an alleged offence that took place more than 30 years ago.

The Tory councillor, who has worked in public service for 22 years, has denied the allegations and today declared "I'm innocent".

He was interviewed by police in Portsmouth earlier this month in connection with the incident.

The 72-year-old, who became a CBE for services to the community in the Queen's Honours last year, was spoken to by officers at Portsmouth Central police station on March 2. He was later allowed to leave having been granted police bail but must reappear at the station in May. Police refused to discuss any details.

Mr Emery-Wallis, who gave up leadership of the council's ruling Conservative group last May, was quoted in a confidential letter to councillors, leaked to the Daily Echo: "I have recently been questioned by the police about an alleged offence which took place over 30 years ago.

"I categorically deny this and I will continue to assist the police with their enquiries. While these enquiries continue I have nothing further to say."

The letter was signed by council leader Ken Thornber, who was today unavailable for comment.

A spokesman from Hampshire County Council said: "This is a private matter between councillor Fred Emery-Wallis and the police. You must direct inquiries to the police."

Hampshire police said today: "We can confirm that Freddie Emery-Wallis was questioned by police at Portsmouth Central police station on March 2 in regard to an alleged offence the details of which we are not prepared to go into.

"He was released on police bail pending further enquiries and no file has been sent to the Crown Prosecution Service."

Recognised as the driving force behind the arts in Hampshire, his career has been marred by controversy and political rivals hold him responsible for closing down old people's homes and depriving social services of cash.

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