OFFICERS at Waltham Forest continue to earn more – despite the economic downturn.

More than 350 officers now earn more than £50,000, an increase of 70 on last year.

The number of employees earning more than £100,000 has almost doubled, from 12 to 21.

Conservative deputy group leader Cllr Michael Lewis said: “It is all very well saying we have completed the first phase of the efficiency review, but we are paying our officers an awful lot of money.

“Something needs to be done about it, when you compare the salaries to the private sector, particularly in manufacturing, they are generous.”

The Guardian is awaiting a comment from the council.