Solihull councillors have voted against a proposed increase in their basic allowance, citing the difficult economic climate as the primary reason. Despite a recommendation from an independent remuneration panel to raise the basic pay for all 51 councillors by £472, bringing it to £13,285 annually, the majority felt now was not the right time for a payrise.
The debate at the full council meeting, held on April 14—the final session before next month’s local elections—revealed deep divisions. Some councillors argued that a payrise was essential to ensure political representation from all backgrounds.
Councillor Michael Gough, leader of the Reform UK group, emphasized the financial hardships facing residents and businesses: “At a time when Solihull residents and businesses are under significant pressure from the cost of living and tight budgets, we will not add to that burden. Every pound spent on allowances is a pound that cannot be spent on frontline services.”
READ MORE: All Birmingham Airport Flights Cancelled Today Due to Eurowings and Lufthansa Strikes - April 16
READ MORE: Birmingham Mother Feels Humiliated Over Ryanair Luggage Dispute Involving Daughter’s Suitcase
In contrast, Liberal Democrat group leader Councillor Ade Adeyemo stressed the importance of competitive pay to attract capable representatives: “We need to do this to make sure we are represented by the best people in Solihull. That is how we keep costs down – not by quibbling over small sums here or there. We make decisions involving millions of pounds.”
Labour councillor Hazel Dawkins highlighted the challenges faced by councillors balancing public service with personal commitments: “We want people with real-life experiences—those who have to take time off work, who have disabilities, and face many other challenges. Concerns about the impact on taxpayers must be balanced with the realities for councillors themselves.”
Green group leader Councillor Max McLoughlin expressed discomfort with approving an allowance increase amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, reflecting the concerns of many.
At her final council meeting, long-serving councillor Diana Holl-Allen stated, “I don’t think we should take an increase. Other councils pay three times as much, so we are already relatively well compensated.”
Independent councillor Alison Rolf offered a different perspective: “If councillors don’t want the allowance, they don’t have to take it—some have donated theirs to charity. But to attract a council representative of all Solihull residents, remuneration needs to be fair. We currently have one of the lowest allowances in the combined authority, and it must keep pace with inflation.”
Ultimately, when the vote was held, a majority of councillors rejected the payrise proposal, opting instead to maintain the current allowances amid the financial pressures facing the community.