Premier tells former PM to stay out of local election

Premier Roger Cook has weighed in on the upcoming local government elections as campaign season heats up, suggesting former Prime Minister Scott Morrison stays out of matters on WA councils.

The former prime minister reportedly made comments about City of Wanneroo mayoral candidate Linda Aitken on Sunday, while he was a guest preacher at a Girrawheen church.

Mr Morrison advocated for residents to vote for Ms Aitken, the incumbent Wanneroo mayor, in the upcoming local government election, according to media reports.

Ms Aitken was a Liberal candidate for Pearce in last year’s federal election.

At a press conference this morning, Mr Cook labelled Mr Morrison’s comments as “bizarre”.

“It's another bizarre contribution from the former prime minister at a time when you didn't think it would get any more bizarre,” he said.

“I would invite the former Prime Minister not to involve himself in these sort of local elections.

"I'm happy if he wants to practice his faith. I think that's an important thing for him to do but not to involve yourself in local government election commentary.”

Ms Aitken ran against her predecessor and former City of Wanneroo mayor Tracey Roberts for the seat of Pearce, which the latter won.

The local government elections is scheduled for October 21.

Mr Cook also commented on an incident in the City of Canning where incumbent mayor Patrick Hall's campaign signs had reportedly been stolen.

"I think it's highly unusual that someone should be caught out doing such a bizarrely dishonest act and I call on every candidate in the local government elections, conduct yourself with respect, conduct yourself with civility, and earn the respect of your voters and you'll get elected into council," Mr Cook said.

"People have to conduct themselves with respect so that they can earn the respect of the voters that they are appealing to.

"This is one of the reasons why we brought in our reforms for the local government sector to try to bring a greater level of scrutiny, transparency and accountability for the way that local governments operate."