01/10/2008
A new system for reimbursing MSPs for the costs they incur in carrying out their parliamentary duties is being introduced today by the Scottish Parliament.
Following an independent review and a parliamentary debate earlier this year, MSPs agreed the terms of the new scheme which will see:
- an end to mortgage interest payments on Edinburgh accommodation,
- a new register for declaring the employment of relatives, and
- a separate provision to meet the salary costs of staff who support Members in carrying out their duties.
Presiding Officer Alex Fergusson said: “The new scheme has the benefit of being less bureaucratic and more transparent, reflecting the public’s continuing support for a system based on openness and accountability for which this Parliament has an excellent reputation.”
Full details of the new scheme, which comes into effect today, are available at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/corporate/spcb/publications/index.htm