Griffiths: scrap plan to hike pay of MPS
SHE SAYS IT’S NOT RIGHT AFTER ‘HUGELY DIFFICULT’ YEAR
KATE Griffiths has called for a proposed pay rise for MPS to be scrapped as the economy continues to suffer through the Covid crisis.
The Burton MP is among dozens of Tory MPS who have signed a letter describing the planned £3,300 wage boost as “neither appropriate nor justifiable”.
MPS are currently paid £81,932, with their wages set by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA).
South Derbyshire MP Heather Wheeler, Lichfield MP Michael Fabricant, who represents Barton under Needwood and Alrewas, and North West Leicestershire MP Andrew Bridgen have not signed the letter, but Mr Fabricant said he would be happy to do so.
The other two MPS have been contacted for comment, but there appears to be a wide consensus within the party – including Boris
Johnson – that the pay rise should not happen.
Ms Griffiths said: “I have today joined with other Conservative parliamentary colleagues in writing to the Chair of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) in opposition to the proposed pay rise for MPS.
“MPS do not have a say on their pay and, as the letter says, the suggested proposal from IPSA is neither appropriate nor justifiable.
“This has been a hugely difficult year for our country with many continuing to face uncertainty. It is right that we all shoulder that burden and I hope IPSA listen to our call and scrap the proposed increase.”
The letter, written by Dehenna Davison MP, who represents Bishop Auckland, reads: “This year has been a year like no other, with the whole nation making huge sacrifices to control the coronavirus, protect the NHS and save lives.
“At the centre of this have been our doctors, nurses, police officers, firefighters, teachers and other essential workers. “Their work has kept people safe, kept our children educated and kept our country running.
“To support people’s jobs and livelihoods, the Government has introduced unprecedented measures, totalling £200 billion.
“But at such a time, where the Government may be asking for restraint elsewhere, we believe it is neither appropriate nor justifiable to be awarding MPS pay rises.
“I am pleased that where the Government can take action on pay it has, with ministerial pay frozen at 2010 levels.
“However, as you know, decisions on the pay of MPS do not sit with Government, but sit with you.
“Therefore, as the independent body responsible for setting Member of Parliaments’ pay, we are calling on you to scrap the ... pay rise we are set to receive this year and freeze MPS’ pay.
“When so many of our constituents are facing uncertainty, it is only right that we help shoulder the burden.
“As such, we sincerely hope that you will take current circumstances into account and scrap the proposed pay rise for Members of Parliament.”