Tory party says no to its own pay increase

The recession has led Tories at Staffordshire County Council to reject a proposed pay increase.

An independent review panel recommended a 2.45 per cent rise in the allowances elected members receive.

However, the Conservative group has said it would be inappropriate to accept when many people in Staffordshire are facing job losses or mounting debts. Philip Atkins, leader of the county Conservative group, said: "The Conservative group totally rejected the proposed increase ."

"The country is in a time of economic turmoil with many of our residents in fear of losing their jobs or on short time working, while others are taking pay cuts. I know the public will see these rises as inappropriate."

Councillor Atkins added that he hoped the ruling Labour group at the county council would do the same.

"The days when councillors attended meetings once or twice a week for a couple of hours are long gone and, for many, representing their constituencies and being responsible for the council's decision-making is now a full-time job.

"However my own personal view is that we should show a lead and not increase members' allowances as the country's economy lurches towards a deep crisis."

He said he felt the council should be doing more to help people in Staffordshire cope with the impact of the economic downturn. Last month Tory members of Lichfield District Council instigated a similar rejection of the recommended pay increase for members.

Similar to Staffordshire County Council, members of Conservative-controlled Lichfield District could have accepted a 2.45 increase to their allowances as recommended by the independent review panel.

But at the budget meeting on February 24 Councillor Doug Constable suggested that allowances be frozen for 12 months, stating it would not be appropriate.

All parties indicated support for the move.