An investigation into alleged racism at Harrow Council is underway.

The authority has announced that Dal Babu OBE, a former borough commander of Harrow Police, was appointed to lead the tax-payer funded internal investigation into the allegations of racism.

The review was prompted by complaints from members of Independent Labour who split from Labour last year after failing to secure cabinet positions at the party's annual general meeting.

Harrow's Labour Group have denied the allegations.

Conservative leader of the council Susan Hall said: "Harrow is a diverse borough and the council has always reflected this, both in the representation of members and the highly professional approach of officers to their work.

"While I have always believed there is no issue about race among council employees, as a precaution I asked for a senior independent figure to look into these claims.

“The result of this investigation will be published as this council believes in transparency and has nothing to hide. I am confident that in an experienced professional of Dal Babu’s calibre, we have found the right person to take this enquiry forward.”

Three candidates were approached about the role but only one invited for interview, with Mr Babu – who is also chair of Harrow's Age UK charity – starting work right away.

He said: “My years in the Metropolitan police have given me a good span of experience about race claims, for example from my role as chair of the National Association of Muslim Police Officers to being the police commander on the ground in Harrow during protests by anti-Islamic groups outside the Mosque.

"On these occasions I strive to establish the facts and stop sometimes overheated rhetoric obscuring the real issue.

“I know Harrow Council well, and I think Councillor Hall and the authority have taken a brave step in establishing this enquiry, which will be independent and professional."

The report is expected to be delivered to Harrow Council by April 11.