Commenting on plans for an 11% pay rise for MPs, Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion, said:

"Accepting a pay rise of 11%, particularly  at a time when so many of our constituents are struggling to make ends meet, would be absolutely wrong. 

“Many people who are in work  are looking forward to either no pay rise next year, or at best another below-inflation increase, while many others are still without work.  Things are particularly tough for public sector workers, who saw their pay drop by 0.8% in the year to August.

“MPs have to be in touch with the people they represent.  That’s why I think an 11% pay rise sends out completely wrong  message.  I support the principle  of an independent body to make decisions on MPs’ pay, but I had no idea the recommendation would be so out of touch with the economic reality for so many.  I was one of the first MPs to come out and completely reject the hike recommended for 2015. The system won’t allow me not to take the pay increase, so if re-elected I’d donate the extra money to a local charity.”