A “full explanation” has been demanded from cash-strapped Perth and Kinross Council after it emerged over £1 million has been spent since 2008 giving staff laptop computers and mobile phones.
The council will set its budget this week with over £9 million in cuts already agreed in principle, bringing over 130 jobs under threat. An estimated £22 million to £30 million must be trimmed from the council’s spending by 2014.
Against this backdrop, The Courier has obtained figures showing the authority has spent £1.35 million on portable electronic devices since the economic crisis began in 2008.
The council has handed out increasing numbers of mobiles and BlackBerrys in each of the three years since 2008. It has also provided staff with 2498 new laptops at a cost of £1.295 million.
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser said, “It is vital that the council acts in the interests of council tax payers at all times and the SNP-led council must justify that buying 2498 laptops in the last three years is required and a necessity for the council to function.
“There needs to be a full explanation … why over a million pounds has been spent on laptops, especially as councils are facing tighter budgets.”
A spokesman for the council defended the spending, pointing out the technology allows employees to work while out of the office and be contacted in emergencies.EfficientHe said, “This technology makes our workforce more responsive, effective and efficient, which in turn means the council is more efficient.
“The council has procurement guidelines in place which services have to follow before deciding to order laptops or mobile phones for staff.
“Devices will only be issued to a member of staff when it can be demonstrated that it will bring benefits to the council.”
He stressed all personal use must be paid for, and equipment is reallocated when staff leave their posts.
“However, we monitor the cost and look to make efficiencies wherever possible,” he said. “We are always looking to get the best deal possible with regard to our contract for mobile devices.”
Emma Boon of the Taxpayers’ Alliance said, “BlackBerrys and laptops can save time and money by increasing council staff efficiency; however this shouldn’t be used as an excuse for unlimited spend on new toys.”
Photo by Flickr user alv1nW.