LIVERPOOL council’s chief executive has referred allegations of electoral fraud against former city leader Warren Bradley to the police.

The claims relate to the nomination of Cllr Bradley’s son, Daniel, to stand in the Central ward of the city at next month’s elections.

The 18-year-old told the Daily Post the signature on the paperwork filed with the council was “a fake”, which led to Cllr Bradley’s resignation as Lib-Dem leader.

The Daily Post understands all the documents are to be handed over to the police, and senior officers are due to meet with city chiefs in the coming days.

The council’s decision to refer the matter to the police came after the chairman of its independent standards committee urged that a full investigation should take place.

Howard Winik, independent chairman of the committee, said: “The chief executive Ged Fitzgerald, as returning officer, is responsible for taking appropriate action against anyone accused of electoral wrongdoing, but these allegations are a cause for concern to everyone who has an interest in the council's reputation.

“I have been in contact with Ged Fitzgerald and the city solicitor, and have urged them to work with the authorities to ensure that the matter is promptly and fully investigated.

“The standards committee will, of course, be maintaining a close interest in the outcome.”

Under the Election Administration Act 2006, anyone convicted of supplying false information to an electoral registration officer could face up to six months in prison.

Cllr Bradley is listed on the nomination forms as having witnessed his son signing the forms.

He strongly denies any wrong-doing, but has not responded to the Daily Post’s enquiries.

Liverpool council chief executive Ged Fitzgerald said: “I can confirm that we have now received an official complaint about Daniel Bradley’s nomination.

“It has now been referred to Merseyside Police.”

A Merseyside Police spokesman said: “We can confirm that we have received notification that a formal complaint is to be made in relation to an allegation of electoral fraud in Liverpool.

“The force will investigate any such complaints thoroughly.”