Sandwell Council leader, Steve Eling, has been dramatically suspended from Labour membership. 

The decision by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), which was  confirmed today (Wednesday), means the Abbey ward councillor can no longer lead Labour’s 70 members on the authority.

The group’s deputy leader, cllr Syeda Khatun, is now expected take over the reins of power. 

The decision, if up-held, could also lead to cllr Eling’s de-selection as a candidate in May’s election because suspended members cannot stand for office.

The shock announcement comes after months of internal fighting within the group and a spate of embarrassing allegations and investigations involving former council members who have since stepped down.

Although suspended from membership cllr Eling could continue as the leader of the council unless the NEC instructs the Sandwell Labour Group to move a vote of no confidence in him, forcing a formal vote in the council chamber.

When approached by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, a spokesman for the regional Labour Party said:  “The Labour Party takes all complaints extremely seriously, which are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures and any appropriate disciplinary action is taken.

“We cannot comment on individual cases.

“We can confirm on background that as part of a lengthy investigation on behalf of Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC), Steve Eling has been suspended pending further investigation.”

Cllr Eling was contacted for comment.