The inspector appointed by the Government to review Northamptonshire CC’s governance has suggested that commissioners should be appointed and two unitaries created, prompting the immediate resignation of leader Heather Smith.

Former Hackney LBC chief executive, Max Caller, said a 'clean sheet, leaving all the history behind' was necessary to ensure the proper running of the council and delivery of services for its taxpayers.

Taking no questions at a press conference today, Cllr Smith announced she was quitting as she criticised MPs for launching 'personal attacks' and 'making her a scapegoat'.