Kevin Madge’s future as the leader of Carmarthenshire county council has been thrown into question after the Public Services Ombudsman confirmed an inquiry had been launched into his comments regarding Sainsbury’s double planning application.

Cllr Madge was lambasted after a county council press release quoted him as accusing MP Jonathan Edwards and AM Rhodri Glyn Thomas of “deliberately trying to sabotage”

the supermarket giant’s plans for new stores at Llandeilo and Cross Hands.

A spokesman for the Ombudsman told the Guardian that after considering an initial complaint against the Garnant councillor, the watchdog believed there were questions over whether he had breached the code of conduct to which all councillors in Wales must adhere.

“We can confirm that we have had a complaint made against Councillor Kevin Madge,” said the spokesman.

“Wecan also confirm that we have decided to investigate the matter further.”

The spokesman said it would be impossible to estimate a time-frame for the proceedings.

Debbie Williams, head of the council’s press team, said: “The leader intends to robustly defend his action in thismatter, but it is inappropriate to comment whilst the Ombudsman is investigating.”