§ 18. Mr. Thomas Coxasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he proposes to review the attendance allowance paid to members of London borough councils.
§ Mr. PeytonI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the financial loss allowance. Therates were increased from 24th January last.
§ Mr. CoxThat is a disappointing reply. The right hon. Gentleman must be aware of the vast amount of time which local councillors have to give. Does he not acknowledge that the allowance which they receive is meagre, that there is no secretarial help and no help with postage, and that, because of this, many able people leave local government? Will he look at the matter again urgently and bring the allowances up to a more realistic figure?
§ Mr. PeytonThe hon. Gentleman refers to attendance allowances. These are being dealt with. Provision for them is contained in the Local Government Bill now before Parliament.