CONCERN has been expressed by local government experts that the local government minister's rejection of demands for a public inquiry into the financial collapse of Thurrock Council may cover up major failings in public accountability.

Thurrock Nub News reported last month on the decision by minister Simon Hoare to ignore pleas from borough residents and councils for the independent probe on the grounds that it would not be in the public interest.

That is a controversial view that has angered many in Thurrock with allegations that the Conservative government is covering up failings by the Tory administration in charge of the council that led to debts of £1.4bn and the council being the subject of government intervention, run by commissioners from neighbouring, Conservative Essex County Council.

A government led team also produced a 'best value inspection' report into the borough authority's demise.

However, its findings - while damning - fell short of the deep dive many expected, and held no-one to account.

Residents and campaigners have demanded answers on how the authority had ended up exposed to multiple high-risk investments that have led to service cuts and a substantial increase in council tax.

However, Mr Hoare says a further inquiry is not needed.

Now the media platform 'Public Finance' is reporting that answers still need to be found for many questions. 

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It reports: "Public sector experts said an official review would have provided the chance to make changes to ensure the circumstances could not be repeated elsewhere."

And it quoted public policy researcher Jack Shaw as saying: "There remains systemic questions - such as the role of the Public Works Loan Board."