Call for change to MP pay structure

Published: 7:45PM Tuesday July 24, 2001

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The Auditor-General wants political perks paid for by the taxpayer to be clear for all to see.

David MacDonald has been investigating MP's allowances since a controversy over accommodation claims by Phillida Bunkle and Marian Hobbs.

He says current rules are inadequate and in need of a complete rewrite and his comments have prompted a call from Bunkle for the return of her old job.

In a report initiated after concerns over the claims by Hobbs and Bunkle, the auditor says the current arrangements are inadequate and in need of change.

MacDonald's report calls for public disclosure of what MPs get and for one independent body to determine all pay and expenses.

MacDonald says too many different agencies are involved in the current regime.

These include:

  • The Higher Salaries Commission
  • The Speaker
  • The Minister for Ministerial Services
  • The Parliamentary Services Commission
  • The Department of Internal Affairs
  • The Parliamentary Service

Bunkle says this report vindicates her and she wants her job back.

The report also raises questions about MPs' tax-free allowances, including the $56 a day they get for turning up at parliament.

Combining salary and allowances as one taxable amount would see an electorate MP move up to $127,000 a year; a list MP to $104,000 and a minister $171,000.

The report also wants an annual disclosure of how much is spent on each MP.

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