Councillor cautioned over child porn offences

Luke Jacobs Monday, February 4, 2013
3:27 PM

A Harrow councillor arrested on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register, it has emerged.

Brian Gate, 58, quit his role as the authority’s cabinet member for children, services and families after he was detained at his home last September, pending the outcome of a police investigation.

The former school governor subsequently accepted a caution for the offence last month and resigned as councillor.

Mr Gate was elected to the Labour-run council in 1997. He was councillor for the Harrow West ward before stepping down.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: “Officers attended a residential address in the Harrow area on Monday, September 24 and arrested a man, now 58, on suspicion of possession of indecent images of children.

“He was cautioned with the above offence and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for two years.”

A Harrow Council spokesman added: “As soon as Harrow Council became aware of the allegation in September, we immediately followed all proper safeguarding procedures and the Labour Party suspended Cllr Brian Gate from his appointed duties.

“Cllr Gate also immediately resigned as portfolio holder and from his governorships.

“Following a police investigation, which he has fully co-operated with, Cllr Gate received a caution. He has since tendered his resignation as a councillor.

“The safety and wellbeing of children and young people in Harrow remains of paramount importance to the council and we will not take any risks whatsoever when it comes to their safety.”