A Hampshire councillor has been asked to step down from his role at the county council due to "confidentiality issues".
Councillor Russell Oppenheimer was acting as executive member for universal services at Hampshire County Council but has now been asked to step down from his role.
Hampshire County Council has stated that Cllr Oppenheimer, who represents Petersfield Hangers, has been asked to step down "in relation to confidentiality issues".
It is understood he will remain a councillor.
The authority has been approached for more information, but at current, it is unclear what these confidentiality issues relate to.
Following the removal of Cllr Oppenheimer, the council has announced a number of changes to its cabinet.
Councillor Kirsty North is to take on the portfolio of executive member for countryside and regulatory services.
Cllr North will retain her chairmanship of the employment in Hampshire County Council committee.
Councillor Zoe Huggins has also been appointed to the position of executive member for performance, human Resources, inclusion and diversity.
Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Rob Humby said: “I have asked Councillor Oppenheimer to step down from his role as Executive Member for Universal Services – Countryside and Regulatory Services, in relation to confidentiality issues. I am unable to provide any further details around this matter, at this stage.
“In his Cabinet role, Russell has worked tirelessly to promote and protect the interests of Hampshire’s countryside and champion the work of the County Council to protect Hampshire consumers - and in particular, the efforts of our Trading Standards teams to tackle illegal sales of vapes to young people, for which we are very grateful. We thank him for all his dedication and teamwork during his time in post.
“Councillor Kirsty North will take on the role of Executive Member for Universal Services – Countryside and Regulatory Services, and also retain her Chairmanship of the Employment in Hampshire County Council Committee (EHCC). Councillor Zoe Huggins has been appointed to the position of Executive Member for Performance, Human Resources, Inclusion and Diversity. These changes will come into effect from Tuesday 23 April.”
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