KENT county councillors received more than £1.7million of taxpayers’ money in expenses and allowances last year, according to official figures just published.

Kent County Council’s 84 members together were paid a total of £1.73million in 2003-2004 – a small reduction on the previous year’s total of £1.78million.

County councillors receive allowances that are set and reviewed by an independent remuneration panel.

In KCC’s case, each county councillor is entitled to what is called a basic allowance of £11,330 but on top of that, many received additional payments through “special responsibility” allowances. These special allowances accounted for £602,740 - nearly a third of the overall sum paid out.

The ten members of KCC’s ruling Conservative cabinet – the key decision-making body - each receive a special responsibility allowance of £23,432 on top of their basic allowance of £11,330.

Kent County Council leader Sir Sandy Bruce-Lockhart received £47,380. This consisted of £36,050 for being leader and the basic allowance of £11,330.

Deputy leader Cllr Sarah Hohler (Con) received the second highest sum of £42,628.

Labour opposition party leader Cllr Mike Eddy received £36,236, including £18,025 special allowance for being the leader of his group. Liberal Democrat leader Cllr Trudy Dean received £24,653.

Of the £1.73million, just under £1million was paid in basic allowances and £169,691 paid in mileage.

Meanwhile, county councillors who refuse to use e-mail have been told they could see their allowances cut.

The independent panel which agrees KCC’s scheme says it is unhappy 11 county councillors are refusing to use e-mail but continue to draw an allowance that includes several hundred pounds a year for computer equipment and supplies.

The panel is to review the situation and has hinted it may consider recommending reductions.