Why do mps get paid so much

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: MPs in the UK receive a base salary of £91,346 as of April 2024, which is set by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) established in 2009. This salary is intended to reflect the demanding nature of parliamentary work, including long hours, constituency duties, and legislative responsibilities. Additionally, MPs receive expenses for office costs, staffing, and travel, with total costs per MP averaging around £237,000 annually when including these allowances.

Key Facts

MP base salary is £91,346 as of April 2024
IPSA was established in 2009 to set MP pay independently
Total annual cost per MP averages £237,000 including expenses
MP salaries increased by 5.5% in April 2024
Backbench MPs work an average of 69 hours per week

Overview

Members of Parliament (MPs) in the United Kingdom receive compensation that has evolved significantly since the first MPs were paid in 1911. Before 1911, MPs served without salary, limiting parliamentary service to those with independent wealth. The Parliament Act 1911 introduced an annual salary of £400 (equivalent to approximately £50,000 today) to enable broader participation. Over the decades, MP pay has increased substantially, with the current system managed by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), created in 2009 following the parliamentary expenses scandal. Historically, MP salaries have been controversial, with debates about appropriate levels reflecting public sector pay, private sector comparisons, and the cost of living in London. The 2024 salary represents a 32% increase from the £69,000 paid in 2010, adjusted for inflation and recommendations from independent reviews.

How It Works

MP compensation operates through a multi-component system managed independently to avoid political interference. The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) determines the base salary annually based on recommendations from the Senior Salaries Review Body, considering factors like public sector pay trends and economic conditions. Beyond the £91,346 salary, MPs receive additional allowances: up to £28,800 for staffing costs (covering typically 3-4 staff members), £26,000 for office expenses in their constituency, and reimbursement for travel between Westminster and their constituency. MPs also qualify for a pension scheme contributing 11.1% of salary. The system includes transparency requirements, with all expenses published quarterly online. Salary adjustments follow a formula linking to changes in public sector earnings, though IPSA can exercise discretion during economic crises, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic when increases were paused.

Why It Matters

MP compensation matters because it directly impacts political representation, diversity, and accountability. Adequate pay enables people from all socioeconomic backgrounds to serve, preventing Parliament from becoming dominated by the wealthy. Research shows that higher salaries correlate with increased legislative productivity and reduced corruption risks. However, excessive pay can create public distrust, especially during economic hardships when MP raises outpace average wage growth. The expenses system, while necessary for parliamentary function, requires robust oversight to prevent abuse, as demonstrated by the 2009 scandal that led to IPSA's creation. Ultimately, balanced compensation supports effective democracy by attracting qualified individuals while maintaining public confidence in political institutions.