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NEWS STORY : IPSA Defends Guidance on Christmas Parties for MPs

STORY

IPSA, the independent body that regulates the pay and pensions of MPs and their staff, has been criticised by a number of MPs for confirming that Christmas parties were legitimate expenses that could be funded by the taxpayer. The body said in a statement:

“As employers, it is entirely appropriate that MPs should, if they see fit, reward their staff with a modest gathering at Christmas.”

Jess Phillips, the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley, said on Twitter:

“Just want to say no one asked for this, no one I know will use it. I think it’s really irresponsible to issue this guidance”.

RESOURCES

IPSA Statement

Comments made by Chris Bryant MP

Comments made by Jess Phillips MP

Comments made by Steve Baker MP

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BBC News Story