Decision details

That the proposals contained in the consultation papers outlined in the report be generally welcomed and that the Chief Executive be authorised to submit the following comments to the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions:

 

Travel and Subsistence Allowances

 

The community representational role of elected members, particularly in rural areas, does not appear to have been recognised, by enabling allowances to be paid for attendance by County Councillors at the invitation of parish councils and similar bodies on matters affecting their electoral division.

 

The proposal that Combined Fire Authorities should be able to make their own schemes in relation to allowances is noted but it would be inconsistent to allow Fire Authorities to determine a scheme without the advice of an independent remuneration panel as is the case with local authorities.

 

Pensions for Elected Members

 

The comments contained in paragraph 12 relating to the position of Scrutiny Commission Deputy Chairman and Spokesmen.

 

The same provisions should apply to members of the executive and those having responsibilities for overview and scrutiny in relation to the six months qualification period.