Ben Howlett, the Member of Parliament for Bath, has given his recent pay rise to two local charities in Bath, the Genesis Trust and Action Against Child Poverty.
The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), the body responsible for MP’s pay, recently confirmed that MPs’ pay will rise to £74,000 as part of a package of changes to their remuneration.
Ben said: “Myself and the Government have consistently opposed this inappropriate 10% pay rise at a time of public sector pay restraint.
“In 2009 all parties chose to set up IPSA, so that MPs would no longer have a say in setting their pay and pensions. This was not a decision for the Government or for MPs, but was solely for IPSA.
“Sadly, despite clear opposition from the Government, IPSA went ahead with the increase.”
“As I promised during the election campaign, I have chosen to donate my pay rise to local charities. Given the array of fantastic charitable organisations in Bath I was spoilt for choice on who to pick.
“However, I have chosen the Genesis Trust and Action Against Child Poverty, a newly set up by St. John’s to help bring charities together.”
“As a compassionate conservative both these organisations tackle issues close to my heart.
“The Genesis Trust does invaluable work for homeless and vulnerable persons in Bath, while Action Against Child Poverty promises to tackle deprivation in the city, an issue which I highlighted in my maiden speech to the Commons.”
“Though I am opposed to the pay increase, I am delighted to be able to show my support for these organisations in this way.”