GovernanceNational 6d 21h left
Should MPs be allowed second jobs?
MPs currently earn a base salary of around £91,000 and may take on limited outside work if it is declared and does not conflict with parliamentary duties. In recent months Labour MP Richard Burgon has introduced a bill and secured debates to impose a full ban, citing cases where some MPs earn over £1 million from external work since the last election. Critics argue the role demands full attention while supporters say outside experience prevents Westminster becoming a career for professional politicians only.
5 Opinions
At least some gave experience
Most full time professional jobs require about 40 - 50 hours per week to do a reasonable effort. They should focus on doing a great job at being an MP, rather than having a second focus.
Why not? If they can use their time more efficiently outside of their government role, then let them. As long as they're taxed the same as the rest of us. More productivity is never wrong.
No, but we need to pay them more. A good gas engineer or electrician can earn £91,000 pa.
£91k is enough, then add expense, day rates and so on.