Mayor hoping PCC merger plans will be back on track this week

The West Midlands Mayor's plans to take over the position of PCC from 2020 were put in jeopardy earlier this month after tweets sent from his account urged people to back the proposals in a consultation.

It led to an investigation into claims that he had interfered in a public consultation, the results of which are due to be revealed on Wednesday.

Conservative Mayor Mr Street told the E&S: "The consultation is ongoing and the board will review the situation on March 22.

"Regarding the debate over some tweets in my name... correctly, there has been an investigation – which I asked for, because I want it to be made clear what I have and haven't done.

"That investigation will report this week and I hope we can then move back to the core of the consultation."

The probe has been conducted by Tim Martin, the West Midlands Combined Authority's monitoring officer.

It came after a tweet sent from Mr Street's account urging supporters to "do anything you can to get us three, four, five or more responses" in a bid to sway the consultation in his favour.

Solihull councillor Bob Grinsell posted a response saying he had "responded three times, using three different names and emails".

Mr Grinsell's actions are understood to have been the subject of a separate probe.

Mr Street has denied that he personally typed or sent out the message. However, he confirmed it had been sent from his account and by someone he had authorised to issue messages on his behalf.

The consultation into the merger of the Mayoral and PCC roles is part of the region's latest devolution deal and has been running since the end of last year.

It has divided opinion, with supporters saying it will improve efficiency and accountability.

Opponents, including West Midlands Labour PCC David Jamieson, argue the move could harm the future of the region's force by leaving it with less cash and oversight.