Report on MP expenses needs to be listened to

The first independent report on the issues around MP expenses is a step in the right direction and needs to be listened to, the Green Party said today.

“The recommendations of this report need to be taken seriously. It is important that there is an independent body to review the remuneration and allowances of MPs. There needs to be a system set up that the public can have confidence in,” said Green Party Co-leader Metiria Turei.

The Fourth Triennial Parliamentary Appropriations Review was released today. It is a comprehensive review of the how the Parliamentary Services budget is used and includes wide ranging recommendation for reform.

“This report highlights issues that we have been concerned about for a long time such as the need to separate private benefits from legitimate work expenses.

“There needs to be serious public discussion of this report and changes need to be made. The current system is due a serious independent overhaul to help restore the public faith in how their money is being used,” said Mrs Turei.