Councillor Expenses Row
19 May 2010, 14:42 | Updated: 19 May 2010, 14:52
A row's blown up over a North Devon councillor who claimed travel expenses to attend meetings after he moved to Swansea.
John Wilsher moved from Barnstaple for personal reasons, but continued his position at North Devon Council saying he wanted to continue his work on projects like the skate park.
He also claimed travel expenses for 4 trips he's made since he moved - at around £130 a trip.
Cllr Wilsher said he intended to resign his seat when his term was due to come to an end in April 2011 anyway, and will resign earlier if that's what his political group now decide is best.
Deputy Leader of North Devon Council Dick Jones said: "Cllr Wilsher's ability to carry out his duties as a North Devon Councillor whilst living where he does is a matter for his conscience and not for me or anyone else to judge, other than his constituents.
"It may well be that interested parties wish to make an enquiry to his group leader, Cllr Malcolm Prowse, who may have more information regarding this situation.
"It is for every councillor to consider in light of their personal circumstances whether or not they should continue to be in receipt of their members allowance, whilst their circumstances may be compromised."
Tell us what you think - Have you worked with Cllr Wilsher? Is it right to continue to represent people in North Devon when no longer living in the area? Add a comment below.
Tell us what you think - Have you worked with Cllr Wilsher? Is it right to continue to represent people in North Devon when no longer living in the area? Add a comment below.