THE report of an independent investigation into a "whistleblower's" claims he was bullied out of his job will be studied by Wirral Council's cabinet tonight.

However, the probe has been classified as "exempt" by the local authority, which means press and public will be excluded from the meeting.

The Globe understands the review centres around the case of Martin Morton, a former employee of adult social services who exposed an "overcharging policy"

Thanks to his revelations in this newspaper, the council finally admitted owing a quarter of a million pounds to vulnerable adults.

The authority had systematically overcharged at least 16 people. The overcharging was spotted by Mr Morton, who repeatedly tried to discuss it with his bosses.

He was eventually paid £45,000 to leave the service and keep quiet.

Instead, in November 2008, he approached the Globe and we helped him tell his story.

The overcharging of elderly and vulnerable people living in homes at Bermuda Road, Curlew Way and Edgehill Road, all in Moreton, went on for seven years.

Mr Morton had raised his concerns several times with his managers, but claims he was ignored, bullied and driven out of his job.

Days after our exclusive report, two senior officers were suspended but, after disciplinary hearings, were reinstated.

The stress of blowing the whistle drove Mr Morton to a nervous breakdown and he was subsequently hospitalised.

A Wirral Council spokeswoman said this afternoon: "For legal reasons, this report cannot be discussed in public as it includes information relating to different individuals and information which is likely to reveal their identity.

“The council is still considering the findings of the report and until any subsequent proceedings have concluded, this exemption cannot be lifted.”

A change of administration after last May's local elections saw an independent inquiry immediately launched looking into every aspect of the case.

It has been chaired by Anna Klonowski, a senior public sector professional with more than 20 years' experience.

Her report was expected in February but was held up when the UK's powerful Equality and Human Rights Commission ruled the overcharging policy amounted to discrimination against disabled people.

The Klonowski inquiry was tasked with examining this claim, which has led to delays.

Town hall sources say her report is now anticipated to be released at the end of May - after the local elections.

Whether that is also to be kept secret remains to be seen.