Spelman: Labour adopts Conservative's transparency policy for councils

Commenting on the Government’s announcement today which adopts Conservative policy, that councils will be legally required to publish the names, pay and perks of all officers Shadow Secretary for Local Government and Communities, Caroline Spelman said:

"This is a long delayed measure - and shows yet again that Labour are playing catch up to the Conservatives in pushing for more openness in town halls. But this doesn't go far enough in opening up the books - councils should be required to publish online all spending over £500. Greater power for local councils has to be backed up with greater local accountability."

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

http://www.conservatives.com/News/News_stories/2009/02/Its_time_to_transfer_power_from_the_central_state_to_local_people.aspx

"we will require local authorities to publish more public information on the remuneration of senior town hall staff, including pensions, perks and severance packages"