I firmly agree with those who say that in the middle of a pandemic, when thousands are losing their jobs and seeing their income cut that it is entirely inappropriate for Members of Parliament to receive a pay rise.
Neither the Government nor Members of Parliament set either the level of parliamentary salaries or the rules governing expenses. Since 2010, responsibility for deciding the salaries and expenses of Members of Parliament has rested with the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA). IPSA is an independent body, established by statute. The pay proposal is now open for consultation until 6 November, with a final decision due in December.
