Warwickshire County Council leader George Finch has described a conduct investigation into him as a “shambles” and a “waste of time and money”.

The Reform UK councillor has faced a number of complaints since becoming leader of the council, with investigations examining allegations about his conduct.

Mr Finch has strongly criticised the process and questioned the amount of council time and public money being spent on the complaints.

He has argued that some of the complaints are politically motivated and part of opposition to his leadership and Reform UK’s policies.

The investigations have added to tensions at Warwickshire County Council, where Mr Finch has faced criticism from opposition councillors over his leadership style and decisions.

However, he has defended his record and rejected allegations of wrongdoing.

The latest dispute comes as the council continues to deal with divisions between political groups, with conduct complaints becoming a source of further controversy.

Mr Finch said the investigation process had failed to provide value for money and criticised what he sees as the time and resources being devoted to complaints against him.

The council leader has maintained that he will continue to focus on his political priorities despite the criticism and ongoing disputes surrounding his leadership.