PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Parliament

Political Parties Should Fund Their Own MPs

Libertarianz Party leader Richard McGrath today said that the decision to give MPs a pay rise is insensitive and insulting to the taxpayers who have to fund it, especially during a period of recession.

"Political parties should pay their own MPs," he said, adding that if elected as MP for Wairarapa he would draw up a private member's bill to do just that.

"It is a kick in the teeth for people on low incomes to be forced to pay these turkeys ever-increasing salaries when they produce absolutely nothing of any worth," he added.

"It should be up to political parties to pay what they feel their representatives are worth - why should I be forced to fund the salaries of people I detest, and why should they be forced to fund my salary in the event that I am elected?"

Dr McGrath suggested MPs only work part-time, with far fewer sitting days, and an emphasis on repealing restrictive laws that choke industry and reduce employment opportunities, rather than imposing yet more rules and regulations.

"This would allow them to work in the private sector to supplement what should be a fairly meagre income as an MP."

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Libertarianz: More Freedom, Less Government
www.libertarianz.org.nz

ENDS

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