Surge in complaints against councillors

Public spending watchdog Audit Scotland said 240 complaints were made in 2008-9, up 21 per cent on the previous year.

Some are lodged by other councillors, leading to questions over the use of the code of conduct and strained relationships in local authorities.

The report said working relationships among councillors and with officers "have been poor for several years". It added: "Political tension has led to confrontation in the council chamber.

"Relationships between councillors and officers have not always been constructive or effective, with some officers reporting incidences of bullying and inappropriate behaviour."

Of the complaints, 35 related to disrespect of employees, councillors or officials. A "significant number" were from councillors.

While the report described strong political and managerial leadership, it also found the relationships between elected members and officers "are not always effective". Audit Scotland was investigating how well councillors and officers work together, understand their roles and where they can be improved.

The report also highlighted the importance of strong financial leadership in light of "severe financial pressures".

John Baillie, chairman of the Accounts Commission, which works in conjunction with Audit Scotland, said that as councils "face increasingly difficult choices, it is vital that they have good working arrangements and relationships in place to support their activity".

Liberal Democrat local government spokeswoman Alison McInnes said: "Audit Scotland is already warning that looming Scottish Parliament and council elections could lead to heightened tensions within administrations.

"This soaring number of complaints, often made by fellow councillors, is concerning. We need to know how many of the 240 complaints were upheld."