COUNCIL chiefs are refusing to shed light on the future of a school embroiled in a �1.6 million bonus scandal despite investigations coming to a close. The snub comes in the wake of news that a third member of staff at Copland School in Cecil Avenue, Wemb

COUNCIL chiefs are refusing to shed light on the future of a school embroiled in a �1.6 million bonus scandal despite investigations coming to a close.

The snub comes in the wake of news that a third member of staff at Copland School in Cecil Avenue, Wembley, resigned rather than face a disciplinary panel.

Columbus Udokoro quit as Bursar of the school after evidence showing payments made to him and three others was revealed.

He followed head teacher Sir Alan Davies and human resources manager, Michelle Bishop in resigning.

Deputy head, Dr Richard Evans, was sacked.

The resignation of Mr Udokoro brings to an end the council investigation which began when geography teacher Hank Roberts blew the whistle on the quartet.

Sir Alan is alleged to have pocketed �600,000 in bonuses while students were taught in crumbling classrooms.

The governing body was removed and an Interim Executive Body (IEB) put in place.

Unions at the school have since unanimously voted in favour of calling for criminal charges to be brought against Sir Alan and Dr Evans and said so in an open letter to the council.

Mr Roberts, who also asked in the letter if they had seen the investigation report, revealed to the Times that so far no-one got back to him regarding his enquiry.

He said: "It is outrageous that they can treat people with such disdain over such an important matter."

The Times asked Brent Council for clarification on the school's future, including a permanent head teacher and governing body and any possible criminal charges against any of those involved in the scandal.

A Brent Council spokesman said: "The IEB will appoint a new head teacher as soon as possible. The IEB will remain in place until the end of the academic year."

The council would not commit to how long 'as soon as possible' meant and refused to be drawn on any discussion regarding possible criminal charges.