Tax payers to have say on allowances

12:01pm Thursday 8th May 2008

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HAMPSHIRE council tax payers can have their say on county councillors' allowances as part of an independent review announced this week.

Advertisements are being placed in newspapers inviting residents - who foot the bill - to give their views in writing or in person at a public hearing at the council's headquarters in Winchester on June 26.

Peter Humphreys, chairman of the three-strong remuneration panel, said: "This is an important review.

"It comes at a time when there is concern at the health of local democracy and we will be looking closely at all the issues."

The review could lead to an increase in allowances in an attempt to attract more younger councillors.

Cllr Sam Payne, 25, who represents Petersfield Butser, had argued her council work prevented her from being able to hold even a part-time job.

She said allowances unsupplemented by other income made it impossible to get a mortgage.

Last year's salary bill for 78 county councillors was £1.23m, which is set to rise again this year as councillors voted to increase their pay in line with the national pay award for local government.

The basic allowance for councillors is currently £11,565 plus an extra £27,913 for Cllr Ken Thornber as leader of the council, and £16,747 for 10 cabinet members.

Councillors also claimed £111,173 in travel and expenses in 2006/7, according to the latest figures available.

But anti-council tax group, IsIt- Fair, argue too much public money is already spent on allowances and expenses while householders face tax hikes and cuts in services.

The review will consider the allowances paid compared to other local authorities and the private sector, hours of work and responsibilities of councillors.

It will also look at the current composition of the council as regards age, gender, disability and ethnic group compared to the population.

The last major review was in 2000.

People who want to give their views in writing or give evidence at the hearing should write by June 5 to: The Chair, The Independent Remuneration Panel, c/o The Chief executive's department, Hampshire County Council, The Castle,Winchester SO23 8UJ or email Irp@hants.gov.uk.