“Give councillors pay rise back to the people!”, says Steff Aquarone

The controversial increase in allowances comes as Conservative councillors consider even more harsh cuts to vital services across Norfolk, in what many are describing as the toughest, meanest budget in a generation.

Mr Aquarone, who hopes to become the next MP for North Norfolk, voted against the increase for councillors, which is being back-dated to last April, as did his fellow Liberal Democrats. 

He’s giving his pay rise to community projects, something he's been doing for almost four years and he's calling on all fellow councillors to follow his lead. 

Conservative councillors voted for the rise to go ahead despite looming cuts to services. Mr Aquarone said: “Conservatives claim the increase in allowances is needed to attract people to become councillors, but Liberal Democrats do it to serve the community, not for the money!” 

He added: “People serve as School Governors, give blood and volunteer for charities without getting money. Councillors already get a reasonable allowance, they shouldn’t take more cash when so many families are suffering real hardship thanks to nearly 14 years of Conservative government.” 

The rise will give councillors a basic allowance of £12,469. Mr Aquarone said: “Councillors giving themselves even more money whilst taking it away from services and facilities is just plain wrong. I call on all councillors to do the right thing and give the money back to the people we serve.”