Call to allow Sark politicians to claim expenses

Chief Pleas will vote on the new policy on 1 October

Politicians and employees of Sark's government may be allowed to claim expenses while carrying out their roles.

Conseillers in Chief Pleas are being asked to vote at their Michaelmas meeting to introduce an expenses policy for staff.

Being a politician in Sark is currently an unpaid role and in neighbouring Guernsey while deputies are paid they are unable to claim expenses as part of their role.

The proposal has been put forward by the island's Policy and Finance Committee.

If approved, members of Chief Pleas would be able to apply for the cost of travel, food, accomodation and providing hospitality.

Proposals for the new policy include limits of £25 for dinner, £12.50 for lunch and £10 for breakfast. No alcohol was claimable under the new policy.

If the proposals are accepted by Conseillers, the policy would be reviewed by officials every two years.

Chief Pleas' treasurer would be responsible for reviewing the claims and maintaining records.

Under the new policy, claims must be submitted at the latest within 30 days of the expense being incurred.