POLICE will not investigate expense claims by tourism boss Sir Gary Verity - at least for the time being.

West Yorkshire Police says it will instead await the findings of an independent investigation commissioned by Welcome to Yorkshire into its former chief executive.

A spokeswoman said officers had met representatives of the organisation and were aware of the allegations made against Sir Gary.

"An independent investigation, including a forensic audit of the company’s accounts, is being commissioned by Welcome to Yorkshire," she said.

" It has been agreed that the full findings of this independent review will be shared with West Yorkshire Police and if at any time evidence is identified of criminal offences this will be brought to the immediate attention of West Yorkshire Police."

Sir Gary resigned last month, at which time Welcome to Yorkshire revealed that concerns have been raised over both his behaviour towards staff and his expenses and said he had voluntarily agreed to reimburse it for monies owed.

Earlier this month, it announced that two external, independent organisations would be appointed to investigate his expenses and behaviour.

Sir Gary said last month he had "always tried to set the highest standards of personal performance and leadership", adding: “Where this has been achieved, I am grateful and when, on occasions, I have fallen short, I apologise.”