John Holden resignation confirmed

The Chief Executive of The Highland Council has confirmed that Mr John Holden has resigned his membership of the council following his conviction and one year jail sentence for benefit fraud. 

Alistair Dodds told the full council meeting at Inverness today (Thursday) that he will now proceed with arrangements to hold a by-election to elect a replacement for Mr Holden on Inverness South Ward. 

Mr Dodds explained to the council that he could not proceed with a by-election until receiving Mr Holden's resignation or a direction from the Sheriff Principal that the seat was vacant. 

As Returning Officer, he had three months from the date of resignation to hold a by-election and he was now liaising with the leaders of the Council groups to agree arrangements to fill the vacancy. 

Inverness South is also represented by Councillors Jim Crawford, Roy Pedersen and Thomas Prag.