SLOUGH’S former deputy mayor has returned to Labour despite still being under investigation, the local democracy reporting service understands.

The Wexham Lea councillor Haqeeq Dar was suspended by central Labour in April, although the exact date and reasons remain unclear.

During his suspension period, Cllr Dar stood as an Independent member.

READ MORE: Slough deputy mayor Haqeeq Dar suspended from Labour party

At a full council meeting on Tuesday, November 23, a “notice was received” advising Cllr Dar had re-joined the Labour group.

However, it is understood Cllr Dar is still under investigation by central Labour. Cllr Dar did not wish to add further comment other than to say: “I am glad to be back.”

Speaking at the meeting, council leader James Swindlehurst said he was “delighted” to welcome back Cllr Dar into the group, and it has been “too long.”

Conservative councillor Dexter Smith (Colnbrook with Poyle) accused Labour of being “judge, jury, and executioner,” adding the public has the right to know of ‘allegations of misdemeanours’.

READ MORE: Slough Labour speak out over councillor Haqeeq Dar's suspension

The mayor, councillor Mohammed Nazir (Lab: Baylis & Stoke), interrupted Cllr Smith, saying this was “irrelevant” and it was a Labour internal matter that has been “sorted and dealt with”.

Cllr Smith attempted a point of order but was blocked by the mayor.

Cllr Dar became deputy mayor and was also the chairman of the planning committee last year. The Conservatives and Independent councillor Madhuri Bedi withdrew their thanks to the retiring deputy earlier this year.