SALARIES OF M.P.’s

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 21632, 8 February 1945, Page 6

SALARIES OF M.P.’s

.Sir, —In reply to my letter Mr. H. H. Barker states, “Mr. Houlahan can hardly hold the Opposition responsible for a measure that was introduced by a Labour Government.” Now, sir. Mr. Barker knows as well as onvone that the measure was introduced as a result of a unanimous report from a Parliamentary Committee consisting ol Government, Opposition and Independent members of the House. Certainly, if Opposition members, not only vote, but also speak in favour of a measure they must share in the responsibility for it. This measure was passed unanimously. So, whether the measure was right or wron.tr, every member, be he Government or Opposition, is responsible for it. I believe the members did the correct thinji. 1 feel sure the jrreat majority of the people of New Zealand think so too. —L. J. HOULAHAN. Sir, —The figures produced by Mr. Ba*rkcr in last nijrht’s issue might cause trepidation in certain circles, but surely there is :t

credit as well as a debit side to the question of increased salaries for M.Ps. Is an M.P. not worth his salt, and is it not a bit tough to point out that the £250 increase! ex-tax) is in itself more than the basic wages of the average worker and many able and overworked civil servants? Mr. Barker should not forget the strain imixjsed on politicians in conducting a country in a state ol war, with little previous experience. He should not forget that the risks of political life are well known and the fickleness of the public proverbial. He should not forget that M.P.’s risk their reputations and, in many cases, their very livelihoods to serve their country in the capacity of lawmakers. Surely these hazards are worthy of adequate recompense, ami the increases at this juncture justified.— P.J.S. | This subject, in its local aspect; has been sufficiently ventilated. —Ed.. Herald.]