TAXPAYERS ARE FORKING OUT FOR MPS' FOOD

Critics seized on the move – by a Commons committee of MPs – as latest evidence of a shameless
“snouts in the trough” culture throughout the political establishment.

It follows anger at shocking revelations about expenses abuses and other sleaze at the House of Commons.

Susie Squire, of the TaxPayers’ Alliance campaign group, said: “It’s unbelievable that after the handsome salary and perks MPs receive that they are trying to squeeze even more money out of taxpayers.

“The rest of the country is having to pay more to put their own food on the table. Yet again, this shows that too many MPs are unconcerned as to the realities facing their constituents.”

The decision also outraged campaigners against swingeing tax rises on alcohol imposed by Chancellor Alistair Darling.

Mark Hastings, spokesman for the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “Our customers will be paying more in tax on their own drink to subsidise MPs paying less for their drink in Westminster.”

A spokesman for the Drinkers Alliance said: “The hypocrisy of our politicians is breathtaking. It’s not surprising outrage about their behaviour grows daily.

“At the very least they should abandon plans to raise taxes on drinks in this month’s Budget.”

The astonishing decision was taken by the Commons Finance and Service Committee on March 19.

MPs have access to nearly a dozen bars, cafeterias and restaurants within the Palace of Westminster.

The subsidy keeps down the cost of gourmet dishes including Scottish fillet steak, loin of venison, Devon crab and bottles of champagne.

MPs, who earn £64,766 after getting a 2.33 per cent pay hike this month and claim on average £144,000 expenses each year, can enjoy three-course meals plus coffee for as little as £12 in their exclusive dining rooms.