Muammar Al Khadafi

Despite taking a much publicised pay cut, Cornwall Councils newly released accounts show that chief executive Kevin Lavery actually received a larger package of pay and perks than he did in the previous year.

On January 1st of this year he agreed to take only 95% of his salary - but, despite that, the total paid out to him stands at £245,342, higher than the £238,800 he received in the previous year.

The total package comprises of £197,500 salary, £38,315 pension contributions, and £9,527 in expenses. Many of us less fortunates would be happy to take home just that £9k after taxes, let alone the £38k in pension payments.

He's not the only high earner on the council to see their salary packages increase.

Tom Flanagan, director for environment and planning, saw his total pay package rise to £162,967, thanks in large part to a £5,000 pay rise.

Corporate director for adult care and support Kim Carey saw her pay package increase by approximately £13,000 - going from £143, 280 in the last year to £156,618 in 2010/11.

Those pay cuts may grab the headlines, but the reality is that when you're at the top of the council trough a pay cut in the headlines often equals a pay rise behind the scenes.

The cutbacks may be hitting everyone, those at the top would like you to believe that they too are taking a hit and sharing the pain - but they're not, pay packages continue to rise for those at the top.

It's only you expected to suffer, those in charge always manage to get back more than they lose one way or another.