THE future of Warren Bradley as leader of Liverpool council is likely to be determined within the next few days after it emerged an ethical standards investigation into his behaviour has now finally reached its conclusion.

It comes almost a year after the Standards Board for England launched an investigation into claims Cllr Bradley and ex- council leader Mike Storey had conspired to remove former Culture Company chief executive Jason Harborow from his job.

The accusations have always been denied by the pair.

The draft report has now been sent to Cllr Bradley, Labour opposition leader Cllr Joe Anderson, Mr Harborow and key city council officials.

The final report is expected to be made public within a matter of days, but until then all involved are legally prohibited from discussing its findings.

It is understood the investigation into former council leader Mike Storey, which is also looking into claims he leaked details of Mr Harborow’s health to the press, is yet to be concluded.

This is an accusation which Cllr Storey also denies.

The arrival of the report has fuelled speculation within the corridors of Municipal Buildings about whether Cllr Bradley will be allowed to continue in his current role.

The options open to the local government watchdog are to exonerate Cllr Bradley, or to find him guilty of one or more breaches of the councillors’ code of conduct.

Even if he is found guilty of breaching the code, the Standards Board could decide to take no further action.

But if he is found guilty and action is deemed necessary, Cllr Bradley may be able to negotiate a punishment with the Standards Board if he admits his guilt.