A TORY councillor has denied being insensitive by asking David Parker, the visually-impaired leader Scottish Borders Council, about his expenses.

Cries of “nasty man” and “disgrace” were uttered in the direction of Councillor Gavin Logan in the Newtown chamber on Thursday.

The member for Tweeddale East had submitted a written question for Councillor Parker.

“Can you tell us why your expenses are not itemised on the council website?” asked Mr Logan.

This was a reference to the members’ expenses forms, mainly concerned with travel claims and giving details of each journey, which can be viewed online under the name of each councillor – with the exception of Mr Parker.

Mr Parker said he was disappointed that Mr Logan had made no attempt to contact officers of the council before submitting his question.

“I have been advised it is debateable whether I require to answer this question, as it may not be competent under Standing Orders,” said a clearly agitated Mr Parker.

“However, in a spirit of openness and transparency I am happy to do so.

“Councillors’ expenses claim forms are published on the website. In fact, I make no claims directly so therefore have no claim forms to publish.

“As you may have noticed, I am visually impaired and, because of my disability, particular arrangements require to be made to allow me to undertake my duties.

“These, of course, constitute reasonable adjustments in terms of the Equality Act.

“Therefore, staff are made available to drive me to meetings and I use taxis where appropriate. Neither of these require me to submit a claim form.

“These costs are properly accounted for and are included in the annual report to council on members’ expenses.” In the last full financial year (2013/14), Mr Parker’s expenses totalled £3,373 on top of his leader’s salary of £32,759.

The catcalls from members of Mr Parker’s ruling administration began when a flushed Mr Parker resumed his seat and Mr Logan responded by saying he believed all councillors should be treated equally.

“The fact is that I must declare and have published every journey I make and I think the same rule should apply to everyone. I see no reason why details of Mr Parker’s journeys are not published and I do not believe my query was insensitive in any way.” After the meeting, Mr Logan was unrepentant.

“The fact is that I did make an attempt to consult officers before submitting my question and was told that a taxi company sent in regular invoices in respect of Mr Parker’s journeys, so the information is out there, it’s just not made public,” he told the Border Telegraph.