The Guardian diagram shows a chart of connection in an attempt to convey a web of corruption. Connection does not automatically mean that a conflict of interest exists. If I believed that any connections that I have, have caused a conflict of interest, then I would have made the necessary formal declaration when I was scheduled to make a decision.
My professional relationship to former Councillors Long and Sullivan are a matter of record. Both of them had been Councillors of long standing when I was first elected to the Council in 1998. I supported Sullivan in his attempt to secure the selection as the Labour candidate for Lewisham Mayor, for the 2002 election which he lost to Steve Bullock. Sullivan resigned from the Council in 2002. Long was one of my co-Councillors in New Cross ward for 8 years until she stood down in 2014. I try to be on friendly terms with everyone I work with and have dealings with through work. I am still in contact with many former Councillors and Officers of the Council as anyone would expect. I don't believe that the contact I have had with Long and Sullivan since they left the Council would convince an objective, impartial person that we are 'very close friends'.
Going back to the Guardian diagram, I think it is impossible for anyone to prove their innocence. That's why I believe that it was wrong for them to publish it and not something that you would expect from a reputable, broadsheet, national newspaper. People should be judged on the evidence. Where there is none, no one should resort to rumour mongering and innuendo.
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