In July, the chancellor told thousands of teachers, nurses, police, firefighters and civil servants that they would face another four-year pay freeze at 1% a year, as part of planned savings worth £17bn. Many more jobs are also set to be lost across the public sector.

The increasing use of public money to fund the chancellor’s office, where he now has 10 advisers, will anger many public-sector workers. The increase in money spent on special advisers is especially embarrassing for David Cameron because of previous pledges to cut the cost of government and the number of special advisers.

The increase in money spent on Osborne’s office will be seen as further evidence that he is seeking to increase his influence across Whitehall. Senior Tories believe he wishes to exert his influence as he seeks follow Cameron into the job of prime minister.

The data shows that Cameron has 32 advisers – six more than in November last year. Twenty-three are paid more than £63,000 a year. Topping the list are his head of communications, Craig Oliver, and chief of staff, Ed Llewellyn, who both earn £140,000.”