11 April 2003
Local government minister Nick Raynsford this week provided further details of his long-awaited overhaul of councillors' allowances, giving authorities the chance to set their own remuneration deals and taking responsibility away from Whitehall.
In a written statement published on April 7, Raynsford said his simplified plans, which followed a protracted period of consultation, were 'in line with the government's [Local Government] White Paper commitment to reduce the burden of red tape on local authorities and provide councils with flexibilities in managing their business'.
Under the new arrangements, local authorities will be able to set allowances packages for councillors without influence from Whitehall, providing they 'have regard to' the recommendations of local independent remuneration panels. Councils will also be required to set out the circumstances in which they pay allowances, so that they are open to public scrutiny.
A spokesman for the Local Government Association said councils would welcome the additional autonomy.
'It's a sensible move and one that will give councils greater flexibility in setting allowances ceilings. Allowing authorities to set payments according to regional factors is also vital, not least because it will help attract the right calibre candidates to local political posts.'
PFapr2003
