Shame!

The MPs with their noses in the trough, and the Government hiding somewhere so they could not be forced to vote, should feel ashamed that they have let down their constituents.

They did reject the possibility of having an inflation busting pay increase, although with a very generous (untaxed?) daily subsistence allowance (- we all have to pay for food when we work) they have done fairly well. This does not mention the subsidised dining arrangements at the Commons, and the well-stocked wine cellars.

It is the continuation of the second home allowances which will stick in many people's throats. It is accepted that the MPs who live outside commuting range should not be out of pocket in buying a new home. We are concerned at the relatively expensive provision for the second home, when we would have to buy it out of post-tax income, and the help with mortage house purchase which is a gift to be kept when their term is finished.

If the John Lewis goods were taxed as income in kind, and if the state reclaimed at the end of their term that part of the second home which the taxpayer has purchased, in other words that they treated themselves rather more as we are treated, our anger might be lessened.

But it is the sheer obsession with trying to cover up what they are up to, and their unwillingness to accept any investigation, after all the revelations which have emerged over the months past which leaves a nasty taste in the mouth.

The refrain of the pigs in Animal Farm, - how aposite, "Some are more equal than others" which sums up their arogant self-importance. The profession, which languishes about on a par with estate agents and second hand car salesmen in people's minds in terms of honesty, have now added greed to their list of characteristics.