Sir, So our MPs “need” a 10 per cent rise, bringing an extra £6,000 per annum to a backbencher (“MPs expected to vote for inflation-busting pay rise”, Dec 26; letters, Dec 27). Perhaps this is the time to consider the state pensioners who are forced to exist on a total income that is less than this extra amount deemed necessary by MPs.

Even with the humiliating and restrictive state charity scheme called pension credit, the yearly income remains barely more than £6,000. I suggest linking the pay and pensions of ministers to the state pension. We have seen an MP spend a night on the streets in support of the homeless recently; I would like to see an MP live for a year on a state pension.

M. Janus
London W11

Sir, I am convinced that equally competent people would offer themselves for election if salaries were reduced by 25 per cent rather than increased. The cut would also set a good example to the public sector.

John Mendelssohn
Nunney, Somerset

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