Lib Dem leader takes paycut

Cllr David Kendall has announced that he will take a 5% pay cut in his special responsibility allowance next year.

At the recent budget meeting, Cllr Kendall suggested that all members taking an SRA took a 5%, but this was voted down by the Tories with one saying "this is a move that only affects Conservatives".

He commented:

"I moved this amendment to the budget last month so all councillors who receive an additional allowance for their special responsibilities could show a bit of solidarity with people in Brentwood who are struggling to make ends meet.

"Sadly, as usual they opposed for the sake of opposing and decided to vote us down on this matter, which is a real shame."

"However, I have decided to make the gesture myself and take a 5% cut in my SRA."

18 of the 29 Conservative councillors take special responsibility allowances, as do Cllr Kendall as Leader of the Opposition and the Labour member as Chair of Overview & Scrutiny.

Allowances are paid to compensate members for expenses incurred, including child minders, postage, petrol and time taken off work.