Are we worth it?

Some of you may have heard Tony Bavington, who is the leader of the three strong Labour Group at Babergh, on the radio this morning, promoting his Party's proposal that would require councillors at Babergh to take a 28 percent pay cut over three years.  The funds raised, he suggested, might be added to our community grants programme.

I voted against the idea, along with all but five of the thirty five or so councillors present.  Since the Labour group clearly courted the press ahead of the meeting to make sure that their plans did not go unnoticed, one has to conclude that it was what it looked like: an orchestrated political gesture.

Prior to the introduction of allowances (by a Labour Government) District councillors gave their time for free, only claiming out of pocket expenses.  This was changed because as things stood only the well off and relatively elderly, or those supported by Trade Unions, could afford to stand.  It is certainly the case that the average age of councillors has declined somewhat since that time.  It is also true however that young people still find it hard to take time off work.   However, the main difference that allowances have made, I think, is that more self-employed people now stand for office, and the experience that they bring to the council is very valuable.

The level of allowances is reviewed by an independent board from time to time.  At Babergh the last review was held in 2008 and another review is likely to happen within the next year.    Although it is almost certain that the board will recommend a rise given the rate of inflation, it is quite possible  that councillors will choose to forego any increase at a time when we are asking residents and staff to make sacrifices.

The remuneration received is hardly munificent in any event.  We are not in Member of Parliament territory here!   One member today worked out that he gets paid about £1.50 an hour for his efforts.  I had done the same sum and come up with a similar result.

Any of us can choose to waive our allowances, or out of pocket expenses, if we wish and some do without making any song and dance about it.  Many use some of the money to make donations to charity or other good causes of our choice.   I personally regard the money in part as compensation for my husband, Nick, who is often marooned at home without our car, and who puts up with a good deal of ‘civic activity’ uncomplainingly.

Quite frankly however, I do not feel councillors need to spend a lot of time justifying their value to the community.   As they say in the ads:   I think we’re worth it!  But do you?