HC Deb 05 July 1972 vol 840 c546
34. Mr. James Lamond

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to announce the scale of attendance allowances to be paid to members of the new local government bodies.

Mr. Graham Page

Early next year.

Mr. Lamond

When coming to that decision will the Minister bear in mind that good government cannot be had on the cheap, and will he ensure that the allowance is sufficient to cover the costs and out-of-pocket expenses of members who may have to travel considerable distances to attend meetings of the new bodies? Since costs are escalating under the present Government, may I suggest an allowance for members of about £15 a day?

Mr. Page

We shall look to the local authority associations for advice, but it is my right hon. Friend's general intention to be generous in fixing these allowances.