MEPs AGREE ON EQUAL SALARIES

1.16.51pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 24th Jun 2005

The European Parliament has today overwhelmingly agreed a new salary system for its members, scrapping the pay discrepancies among them and ending a much criticised reimbursement scheme for their travels.

This would remove disparities in pay, which see Italian MEPs take in about €11,000 a month while Lithuanian colleagues pocket just about €800.

Reformers claim that an agreement reached with the Council of Ministers will play a major role in curbing the 'gravy train' reputation that has brought the European Parliament into disrepute.

West Midlands MEP Liz Lynne said:

"We have voted for equal pay for equal work - and that means equal; fair treatment for all our colleagues"

"We have finally delivered a transparent system of expenses based on actual cost. We will be cleaning up our act and removing a constant cause for public criticism"

"It is now up to the Council to honour their side of the agreement".

Chris Davies, leader of the British Liberal Democrat MEPs, has campaigned for reform. He commented:

"The EU has had a turbulent few weeks so I'm pleased that MEPs have made real progress by putting the reputation of the European Parliament before their personal financial interests."

"Agreement over a common salary is the key that unlocks the doors to reform of expenses. It will establish a clear rate for the job and send a message that the 'fiddles' are on their way out."

"The arrangements will come into force only after the next elections but that compromise is the price of getting the deal.

"MEPs will still be paid well by comparison to most of their constituents but it will be less than many of the lobbyists in Brussels who vie for their attention."