Disclosure of executive salaries is ‘a good start’ - But, City Hall must cut staff perks, says council's Labour leader Paul Dimoldenberg

Published: 12 March 2010
by JAMIE WELHAM

A LIST disclosing the salaries of Westminster Council’s highest earning executives does not go far enough, according to opposition leaders.

The document, published in the name of “transparency” and available on the council’s website, reveals the authority has 12 senior staff earning more than £100,000 a year – the highest being chief executive Mike More, who is paid over £200,000.

Labour leader Paul Dimoldenberg says City Hall must now scrap perks such as private health insurance and company cars. He added: “This is a step in the right direction. Residents have a right to know the salaries and perks enjoyed by the top-paid council officials. 

“We have called for the £360,000 of staff bonuses due to be paid this year to be scrapped because of the economic situation. We are also calling for the £235,000 spent on lease cars and £220,000 spent on private healthcare for to paid staff to be scrapped and the money spent on front-line services”

City Hall officials say they are presenting the information as proof of being ahead of the game when it comes to public accountability.

Graham White, director of human resources, said: “We’re pretty certain we are the first local authority to do this. Everyone else has run for cover on the subject of pay, and I think the more you hide it, the more confusing it becomes. “We hope other public sector organisations will follow suit.”