John Key Presents Clayton Solution to MP Pay

The Taxpayers’ Union is welcoming the overhaul of the Remuneration Authority Act in relation to MPs' pay, but is slamming the use of Parliamentary urgency to avoid the public getting an opportunity to have their say. Taxpayers’ UnionExecutive Director, Jordan Williams, says:

“Parliamentary urgency should be used for legislation that is needed urgently, not for avoiding public input and the select committee process."

“While the proposed change is an improvement on the status quo it creates a conflict of interest for ministers negotiating public sector pay because the amounts paid to bureaucrats will directly affect what goes into their own pay packets."

“The Government would be much better served by a simple law change allowing the Remuneration Authority to factor in the public service element of being an MP, and requiring the appointment of a taxpayers’ representative. Instead these changes set up a process where the foxes guard the hen house with no opportunity for the public to submit. It sets a dangerous precedent.”

ENDS

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