Yes, I saw that as well. I've no idea if he is or not or whether it is relevant to the investigation. I do find it a little hard to believe to be honest.
Absolutely. He is protecting his members, no matter what they have done. So his agenda was to minimise the damage. He would want the KC to rush it, fail to complete a thorough investigation, fail to identify all the culprits, fail to identify all the crimes.
I suspect, based on anecdotal...
Here's an article from back in July. He wasn't keen on the investigation!
https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/23632871.gmb-wants-hollingdean-bin-depot-racism-inquiry-end-quickly/
BTW, do read the comments on this and the article at the top. They're hilarious!