Telford & Wrekin Council leader targets 'Walter Mitty' MP Mark Pritchard

The Tory MP told Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg in the Commons earlier this month there was a "back door" deal being done to merge the two authorities – a claim rubbished at the time by chiefs of both councils.

But the issue was again raised at a full council meeting at Oakengates Theatre last night, as a councillor again asked for assurances there was nothing on the table.

Councillor Sahota was responding to a question submitted by Labour Councillor Rob Sloan, who asked: "Can the leader confirm to council that there is no 'back door' or 'front door' deal currently being done to merge with Wolverhampton City Council?"

The council leader replied: "There is absolutely no plan for Telford & Wrekin Council to merge with Wolverhampton, whether its through the back door, front door or any other door.

"The reason is we are one of the most successful councils in the country in bringing jobs and growth.

"This has come about again because of comments by the MP for Wrekin, which is very disappointing.

"He keeps on making false statements.

"We already work with a number of authorities across the country when it suits us and we will continue to do that. It is not the first time this MP has made false statements, he just keeps making up these things.

"He reminds me of a fictional character created by James Thurber and that character is Walter Mitty.

"He just goes around daydreaming all day making up things.

"I wish he would stop doing that. I hope his voters are listening."