HC Deb 28 October 1970 vol 805 cc126-7W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Lord President of the Council whether the Government will now refer the question of Members of Parliament's salaries to the National Board for Prices and Incomes or to another independent authority for consideration.

Mr. Whitelaw

No.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

asked the Lord President of the Council whether he will propose a change in the rate of Members' car allowance to bring this into line with the rates payable to members of local authorities.

Mr. Whitelaw

The Members' car allowance has been reviewed in the light of current operating costs, and the Government propose that the present allowance of 6d. a mile should be increased to 1s. a mile. This would substantially achieve what my right hon. and learned Friend seeks. The Resolution required to give effect to this proposal will be brought before the House as soon as possible.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Lord President of the Council in view of the fact that civil servants on salary scales above, below and on a par with those paid to Members of Parliament are paid up to 11¼d. per mile car allowance when using their private cars on state business whereas Members of Parliament are allowed to claim 6d. per mile, whether he will seek to adjust the latter to a figure nearer to 11¼d.

Mr. Whitelaw

I have written to the hon. Member.