Moray Council leader Kathleen Robertson to receive 40% wage increase amid tax rises

A Scottish council leader is set to receive a 40% pay rise this year.

Moray Council leader Kathleen Robertson was earning £35,580 in 2024, however, her wage is set to increase to £50,063.

The decision comes following a recommendation from the Scottish Local Authorities Remuneration Committee to ensure the diversity and sustainability of councillors in Scotland, by removing barriers to holding elected office and enabling wider representation.

The Scottish Parliament has approved regulations to decrease the number of local authority bands from four to three.

This means those previously on the lowest band, including Moray, are now in the same bracket as Dundee City Council and East Dunbartonshire Council, whose leaders were paid £42,698 last year.

In 2024 Glasgow and Edinburgh’s council leaders were paid £64,043, whilst Aberdeen’s received £49,810.

Moray councillors have also been given a 21% rise from £21,345 to £25,982. Those with senior roles in the council will receive a 15% increase, which will see salaries rise to £31,764.

Council leader Kathleen Robertson, said: “In the interests of transparency we’re publicising this information that’s already in the public domain, as the salary of elected members is often a question put to us.

“While councils don’t set the rates of pay for councillors it’s appropriate that we scrutinise the decisions surrounding any changes to salaries.

“This update aims to make pay for councillors fairer to reflect the work undertaken and my hope is that it shows the value we place in the position of office and encourages more people to consider becoming a councillor in future.”