People have a right to know about council salaries (From Harrow Times)

People have a right to know about council salaries

11:14am Friday 23rd July 2010 in

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The difference between Labour’s policies in opposition and control becomes increasingly stark. At the recent council meeting we Conservatives presented a proposal to publish information about the salaries and expenses of highly paid council officers. Pretty uncontroversial stuff that is being done all over the country.

We expected Labour to agree since, when in opposition, their leader Bill Stephenson said Harrow residents have the right to know up front precisely what is being proposed in an open and transparent way. A sentiment we think entirely correct.

To our astonishment Graham Henson, Labour’s portfolio holder, described our reasonable request for information as “ludicrous” and “ill-considered”. He did not feel it necessary to provide information for Harrow’s “armchair auditors”. We would describe these “armchair auditors” as Harrow residents trying to make sure their taxes are spent sensibly.

If I can quote again from Bill Stephenson, who described our approach as, “arrogant and high handed, the way they conducted affairs with the public”. We are not even in the same division as Labour. It is the public’s money, they have the right to know how it is spent.

Shame on you Labour.

Cllr Tony Ferrari, The Eagles, West Drive, Harrow Weald