formal

The Information Commissioner's office issued a formal reprimand to the Electoral Commission but if equivalent mistakes were made in a private sector breach it would likely have led to a large fine.

Mr Péchier said at the time he was being framed but a few weeks later he was placed under formal investigation.

Paul Kirtley was found to have committed misconduct and issued with a formal warning.

Federal officials said the transition intends to keep current exhibits and staff in place, with a formal handover expected as soon as early next year.

A Peterborough City Council spokesperson said: "A formal complaint has been received by the council in relation to this and we are now considering its contents."