Harrow Council's leader says his new smaller cabinet will save taxpayers money in allowances.

Councillor Thaya Idaikkadar made his comments following the appointment of his new cabinet last week, which will have five portfolio holders whereas previously there had been eight.

He said: “Obviously with fewer cabinet members we will be saving the taxpayer money, which is important.”

Nearly two weeks ago councillor Idaikkadar and eight other councillors split from the ruling Labour Party to form the Independent Labour group.

As leader of the council he then dismissed the council cabinet and last week appointed a new cabinet consisting of members of the new Independent Labour group and two senior Conservatives in non-voting roles.

As a result of the smaller cabinet, members have been given a number of portfolios to work on, such as deputy leader councillor Asad Omar who is responsible for environment, community and culture and housing.

Asked if some members may have too much work, councillor Idaikkadar said: “It is a lot of work today but it’s about organising your time and streamlining your work.

“At the end of the day it is about being dedicated to the work and I think our cabinet certainly will be.”

Under the allowance scheme agree by the council in February this year, portfolio holders can get up to £19,630 as a Special Responsibility Allowance (SRA).

Also under the rules, no member may receive an SRA in respect of more than one post.

As leader of the councillor Idaikkadar will receive up to £30, 799 in allowances.

The new cabinet is set to be confirmed at an extraordinary meeting of the council on Thursday, May 23.