There are calls for Hertsmere MP, Oliver Dowden, to distance himself from the Elstree Film Studios expenses scandal raging at Hertsmere Borough Council, where auditors identified ‘significant issues’ around conflict of interest; misuse of expenses; and breaches of the 2006 Companies Act by Conservative councillors.

A letter from Hertsmere Labour Party’s Chair, Dr Dan Ozarow to Mr Dowden noted that: “Hertsmere residents have expressed deep concern and anger at this abuse of public assets by elected Councillors, the Hertsmere Conservative Association and the Local Government Association Conservative Group.”

The MP is being asked to distance himself from this abuse of public assets and to condemn the behaviour of Council Leader and Chairman of Elstree Film Studios, Morris Bright and Cllr Paul Morris. He is also being asked to call upon the Council to implement the recommendations of the auditors without delay.

Continued Dr Ozarow: “Oliver Dowden is also personally implicated as he was apparently guest of honour at the criticised 2015 Hertsmere Conservative Association fundraising dinner held at Elstree Studios during his parliamentary election campaign. I assume that he had no knowledge of the irregular nature of the use of the Studios at the time, but am seeking clarification on this”.

As a result of this Hertsmere Labour Party want to know whether any of the funds raised at the event were used for Dowden’s general election campaign.