Metro Mayor James Palmer’s budget was approved at a meeting of the combined authority (CAPCA), despite widespread criticism of his past over-spending.

Cambs Times: Metro Mayor’s office budget for 2019/20 approved, despite widespread criticism of past spending. Cllr Herbert challenges Mayor PalmerMetro Mayor’s office budget for 2019/20 approved, despite widespread criticism of past spending. Cllr Herbert challenges Mayor Palmer (Image: Archant)

Speaking at a meeting of the CAPCA board on January 30, newly appointed chief financial officer, Noel O’Neill, said: “The draft mayor’s budget for 2019/20 is based upon the recommendation made by an independent remuneration panel.”

The mayor’s allowances for 2019/20 are: £85,000 for the mayor (his personal allowance); £25,000 for mayor’s office expenses; £52,400 for mayor’s office acommodation and £85,000 for the mayor’s office staff.

The total mayor’s budget for 2019/20 is £357,800.