SUPERANNUATION FOR THE M.P.

Press, Volume LXXXIII, Issue 25345, 19 November 1947, Page 2

SUPERANNUATION FOR THE M.P.

Sir, —From your correspondence columns of to-day it is pleasing to note the strong opposition to outrageous superannuation scheme for M.P.’s which the Labour Government is endeavouring to foist on to the people of this country. It is almost incredible to think that we have men in Parliament who would be prepared to legalise such a raid on the public purse in their own interests. When we think of their handsome salaries, their handsome allowances and the handsome exemption from tax which they have recently granted themselves, to say nothing of the handsome meals at Bellamy’s, at much less than cost, and the luxurious form of air travel at their disposal (leaving out world tours) it really makes one disgusted with the greed of these gentlemen. I will be amazed if Mr Holland falls for the scheme and more amazed if the member of my electorate supports it. —Yours, etc., . _ ST. ALBANS. November 18, 1947.

Sir, —The many superannuitants on the lower scale will naturally feel aggrieved at the measure now before the House of Representatives, embodying such a generous scheme of pensions for the politicians. The retired public or civil servant on £2OO or less still has to pay tax on his allowance, thus being placed in the same category for taxation purposes as the wage-earner. But the privileged member of Parliament has £250 of his salary exempt from taxation. Again, it must be taken into consideration that those now on retiring allowance have contributed to the Superannuation Fund for varying periods up to 40 years—from 5 to 10 per cent., according to age, being compulsorily deducted from salaries on this account. Compare this with the magnanimous treatment accorded the aged M.P. when he reaches his two score years and 10, ensuring an honourable retirement free from financial worries and carking care.— Yours, etc., INTERESTED. November 18, 1947.

Sir, —Forty years’ continuous work in the public services is the rule to

secure superannuation benefits. Politicians evidently gather a wondrous conceit when elected to Parliament; they have good remuneration and many privileges, but consider themselves worn out with nine years maybe discontinuous service. Well has it been pointed out that power is a corrupting influence.—Yours, etc., A.H.S. November 18, 1947.