Councillors in Brent have voted to increase their annual allowance by more than 17 per cent.

They agreed to raise the basic allowance from £10,201 to £12,000 at Brent Council’s annual meeting on Monday.

However, some special responsibility allowances have been cut, such as payments to those on several scrutiny committees and to the borough’s mayor and his deputy.  

According to the Labour-run council, these alterations will help balance out the basic increase and ensure that any extra costs are kept down.

A spokesperson said: “The proposals agreed by councillors represent a balanced approach which reflects the significant funding cuts from government over recent years.

“On one hand, the proposals are set to increase the basic allowance paid to all councillors meaning the budget we have available is spread more evenly among councillors who work hard on residents’ behalf.

“At the same time, we are set to remove, or significantly reduce, the additional special responsibility allowances which some councillors who hold various positions, such as chairing a committee, are paid on top of the basic allowance.”

The council noted that this approach was based on recommendations from the Independent Remuneration Panel, which advises on allowances paid in London.

It added that any differences will be paid for from the council’s existing budget for existing budget for executive and member services.  

There is no change to the allowances for key council positions, including leader, deputy leader and cabinet members, but the Conservative leader’s special allowance has been slashed by more than 50 per cent.

It means that the council leader, Cllr Muhammed Butt, will pocket more than £50,000 for his role.