Woolas Accused Of Manipulating Image

The image in question. (via Nick Thornsby)

Saddleworth MP Phil Woolas has been accused of manipulating an image of his election rival Elwyn Watkins. The allegedly photoshopped image of Mr Watkins in front of a row of police officers appeared in one of Mr Woolas’ leaflets during the general election campaign.

The allegations were made today in an article by Liberal Democrat blogger Nick Thornsby. He wrote: “If you look a little closer, though, it doesn’t take a genius to see that there’s something not quite right. No wonder: the photo is a complete fabrication.” He goes on to point out that the image of the police officers is the same one that appears as the top result when searching for “uk armed police” on Google Images (as shown here).

Since May’s election, some commenters on various Internet forums have pointed out the apparently altered image, but this is the first time the allegations have been made in any detail. Mr Thornsby has also described Mr Woolas as “hypocritical” because he had apparently complained about a past Lib Dem opponent, Tony Dawson, allegedly manipulating photographs.

You can view the article in full here. When Saddleworth News contacted Mr Woolas’ offices for a comment this afternoon, nobody was answering the phone in either Oldham or London. If I get a response at a later time, I’ll add that here.

Mr Woolas is already facing  a rare election court hearing about some of his campaign literature. Mr Watkins, who lost by just 103 votes at the election after a bitterly-fought battle, has argued that Mr Woolas broke the law by making certain statements about him in his leaflets.

Two High Court judges will hear the case at Uppermill Civic Hall, starting a week on Monday. If they agree with Mr Watkins, a by-election could be held, and Mr Woolas and his election agent might be barred from holding public office.

You can read full coverage from Saddleworth News of the campaign in Oldham East and Saddleworth, and the continuing aftermath, here.

Author: Jude Gidney - Editor

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