But the council's executive board was told the 'recruiting tool' was rarely used, and the cash was recouped when the employee either left the council, or sold the property.

At this time, the authority also shared the increased value of the home.

The board heard the so-called 'employer mortgage', offered by a number of public authorities, was where the council granted a second mortgage to the employee. The employee did not pay any interest or capital payment on this element of the mortgage.

The board agreed to increase the maximum advance from £70,000 to £100,000.

Cllr John Cherry, portfolio holder for resources, said the council was in danger of losing out to competitors in attracting high-calibre staff.

"This scheme has been used only four times since 1989, so it is not as if we are splashing out here," he added.

"Because we have used it so infrequently, figures are out of touch with current prices."

The alternative for the individuals they were trying to attract would be a huge increase in salary, with many secondary consequences.

Deputy chief executive Rob Benny said this was a highly-useful recruitment tool, but one used very sparingly. It was aimed mainly at senior posts.

"There have been crucial occasions when it has made a difference between getting a candidate and not getting a candidate," he said.

Council leader Cllr Myles Cullen said: "It is extremely difficult recruiting the right type of people. We have to make sure we get the right people."



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