Daily Star: 35% rise for MPs on cards

by EMILY ROSE

MPs probing their scandal-hit expense system have recommended giving themselves a huge pay rise.

The Members Estimate Committee said claiming even more taxpayers' money could stop criticism.

The committee is led by Commons Speaker Michael Martin, himself the target of a sleaze probe.

The cash, equivalent to a 35% boost in backbenchers' pay to £85,000 a year, would replace the Additional Costs Allowance.

Matthew Elliott, of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: "Whatever the new system is, it must be fully transparent."