HC Deb 18 November 1947 vol 444 cc984-5
56. Mr. McGovern

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the number of Members of Parliament who refused to accept the increase in salary from £600 to £1,000; and how many Glasgow Members refused to accept same.

Sir S. Cripps

Of Members previously drawing £600 a year, six refused the whole, and two accepted a part only, of the recent increase. The House will not expect me to disclose the position of particular Members or groups of Members in this matter.

Mr. McGovern

In view of the fact that certain hon. Members have been attacking the Government and other Members of the House for agreeing to this increase, can my right hon. and learned Friend give us an assurance that no Member has offered to return that part of his salary, or has refused it, and the Treasury has refused to accept it? In case there should be any difficulty about the return of such money or about the refusal to accept it, will my right hon. and learned Friend issue instructions to Members as to how they can divest themselves of this encumbrance?

Sir S. Cripps

I do not think there is any question of any Member wishing to divest himself of an encumbrance, any more than in the case of any other citizen when money comes to him.