West Midlands Police Federation chairman removed over 'breach of confidence'

Sergeant Richard Cook said he is considering and that the complaint came after he shared an email with a colleague.

He posted on Twitter saying: "Colleagues may be aware I was suspended from my post as Chair @westmidspolfed

"I have today had a hearing at @PFEWHQ and the panel has removed me from office for a “breach of confidence” arising from forwarding an email to another fed rep, @LeeMBroad for advice.

"I acknowledge this was an error of judgement, made in good faith and apologise to colleagues.

"I am concerned at how I’ve been dealt with and the proportionality of the sanction and am considering an appeal.

"The core issue behind this is the #PensionChallenge

"I’m really grateful for the support I’ve had which has heartened me but I’m so sorry I cannot continue to be the voice of members in @WMPolice

"It’s been a genuine honour and I’m so sad but also proud of what we’ve achieved."

Mr Cooke added: "A group of police officers called the pension challenge group of which I am one campaigned against the Government.

"We had a meeting on July 9 which was all about the response of the federation.

"What I was alleged to have done is to breach confidence by emailing another federation rep with a draft statement and they said I was instructed to keep it within the room.

"I am considering appealing."

A spokesman for the Police Federation of England and Wales said: "The ethics, standards and performance committee met today to consider ‘breach of confidence’ complaints made against the chairman of West Midlands Police Federation Richard Cooke.

"Having heard all the evidence and after careful consideration, the panel have upheld the complaints and removed Richard Cooke from his position as local chairman and PFEW rep.

"The disciplinary process outcome allows for the right of appeal so it would be inappropriate for the Police Federation of England and Wales to comment further at this stage."