Lincoln leaders get pay rise, saying politics shouldn't be ‘rich man’s game’
NewsLincoln NewsPoliticsBut others warned councillors needed to 'tighten their belts'09:51, 22 Jul 2026Allowances will rise forCity of Lincolncouncillors in an attempt to make elected office affordable for. . .
NewsLincoln NewsPoliticsBut others warned councillors needed to 'tighten their belts'09:51, 22 Jul 2026Allowances will rise forCity of Lincolncouncillors in an attempt to make elected office affordable for working people. The annual allowance will be just under £6,000 for the year starting April 2026, with other expenses for leadership positions. A three percent rise, which was recommended by an independent panel, was voted through at the full council meeting on Tuesday, July 21. Group leaders of smaller parties will also receive remuneration for the first time. While some said it allowed less-affluent people to enter politics, others said councillors should 'tighten their belts'. Labourcouncillor Chris Burke said: "Once only wealthy people could afford to become councillors and MPs. "Not rising allowances means this becomes a rich man’s club. “We need representation from people of all backgrounds. Keeping allowances low would be excluding people on low incomes. "The motion was opposed by theReform group, who were attending their first full council meeting since winning seats in May. Group leader Councillor Liam Kelly said it "isn't the best use of public money". Adding: "We should be showing restraint. "It sends the wrong message. Residents are tightening their belts - councillors should be prepared to do the same. "Liberal Democrat leader Martin Christopher voted against the rise, but said he received less than £5 per hour for his council work. He said: "Residents assume their local councillors are on MP wages and are claiming expenses. In fact it's very difficult to become a working-age councillor - many can’t afford to. "However, I represent the Monks Road and St Giles areas, which are in the one percent most deprived neighbourhoods in the country, so it doesn't sit well with me. "Council leader Naomi Tweddle said city allowances were much lower than those paid at county council. "During the austerity years, we turned down increases year after year," she told the meeting. "We don't do this for financial gain, we do it because we care about the city. "Article continues belowMinority group leaders will receive £175 per councillor in their party. Choose Lincolnshire Live as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value. Labour PartyLiberal DemocratsPoliticsLincolnCity of Lincoln CouncilReform UK