Wood relieved after election spending probe draws blank

The Conservative candidate for Dudley South was one of 14 Tory candidates that were investigated over spending in the run up to the 2015 General Election.

The CPS announced today that it will make no charges against them.

Mr Wood said the allegations had been 'obviously politically motivated' and added: "I was confident the investigation would conclude with the CPS finding no evidence of wrongdoing.

"However it is a great relief that a line can be drawn under this episode.

"The allegations relate to a single complaint that was made by one individual. I think it is right that an investigation took place and I am pleased that the CPS has come to the right conclusion.

"I'm now looking forward to getting out there and carrying on campaigning for the people of Dudley South."

Cannock Chase parliamentary candidate Amanda Milling was also cleared following the investigation.

The CPS head of special crime Nick Vamos said prosecutors had examined files from 14 police forces, but determined that there was insufficient evidence to prove that any candidate or agent had acted dishonestly.

He said: "We reviewed the files in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors and have concluded the tests in the Code are not met and no criminal charges have been authorised."

One file relating to successful Thanet South candidate Craig Mackinlay remains under consideration.

The allegations related to claims that incorrect expenses were filed for the party’s 2015 battle bus, which travelled the country during that year's election.

Candidates were accused of labelling spending on hotels and campaign material as national spending rather than local, potentially allowing them to increase their constituency campaigning without breaking a legal spending ceiling.