I REFER to the letter from Clr Judith Walker in the Warrington GUARDIAN on August 7.

The indignation of the Liberal Democrats concerning the recent change in councillors' allowances is such that it would not be unreasonable for the public to expect that they donate their increases to charity.

In Clr Walker's case, with two councillors in the same household, this would amount to £9,400.

In the debate at the police committee, in which I do not recall Mrs Walker making a contribution, the factual position was spelled out:

The recommendations were made by an independent body.

The Labour group had agreed to accept their recommendations, without any knowledge of the details, as a matter of principle.

The new scheme has meant severe financial loss to some members and both the new and old scheme meant personal financial loss to others.

The new scheme recognises the holistic nature of a councillor's duties and the need for members to engage with their communities.

The use of an independent body to evaluate the work of councillors means that councillors will not be deciding their own rates of allowances. This should allow such matters to be de-politicised.

These changes pre-empt proposals made in the local government white paper supported by Paddy Ashdown and the Liberal Democrats in Parliament.

Finally, the overall cost to the ratepayers of Warrington is less with the new scheme than it was with the old scheme. It is also less expensive than many other authorities, including those run by the Liberal Democrats.

CLR M. HUGHES

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