NEWPORT councillors hit back at stinging criticism from leader Sir Harry Jones about slack attendance at meetings.

Many said those with jobs found it hard to attend and the council should change its practices.

The Argus reported a fortnight ago how Sir Harry blasted the "appalling" attendance record and criticised those who stay quiet during meetings. A pilot programme to tighten up on recording attendance has now been introduced to catch those arriving late and leaving early.

Councillors get a basic salary of £10,800 and are obliged to attend only one meeting every six months.

But this week's council meeting was almost a full house, with only five absent.

Councillors spent four hours and 20 minutes debating a slim agenda. Councillor Peter McKim said it was unfair that those with poor attendance had not been named.

"But some have jobs. Thirty years ago every councillor had the free time to be away from their job to come to meetings. That doesn't happen any more," he said.

Councillor Ernie Watkins urged the council to review its practices to attract those with jobs and families.

"Have a look at the amount of grey hair in here. And how many women are there? Not many," he said.

Councillor Margaret Cornelious said: "I am self- employed and twice I have paid someone to cover for me, only to find the meeting has been cancelled. It's very difficult."

And Councillor Adam Cox, who has a full-time job, said: "What we do in our wards is more important to voters. If meetings were moved to the evenings I would show 100 per cent attendance."

Sir Harry said he had been told attendance had shot up. Although work and family should take precedence over council work, councillors have obligations, he said. "If you miss a meeting you are doing an injustice to your community." He said his comments were particularly aimed at the six Conserva-tives who boycotted a budget seminar.