Plans to give MPs a pay rise have been defended by a Darlington conservative who says he offers residents “value for money”.

Peter Gibson, who was elected as MP for the town in 2019, said he works around 80 hours a week responding to local concerns, while also championing the region in Westminster.

He made the comments while addressing constituents on social media after it was announced MPs are set to get a 2.9 per cent pay increase from April, bringing the overall salary from £84,144 to £86,584.

The salary increase for MPs comes as households across the country grapple with cost-of-living pressures, with the Government also facing a wave of industrial action by nurses, railway workers, teachers and others as part of ongoing disputes over pay.

The Northern Echo: Peter Gibson MP (left) at the Pride festival parade in the centre of Darlington in 2022. Peter Gibson MP (left) at the Pride festival parade in the centre of Darlington in 2022. (Image: Chris Booth)

“I believe that I work hard, in a job I love and which I put my heart and soul into,” he said.

“In a typical week I spend almost 80 hours a week working, much of that time away from my family, working long anti-social hours.

“I spend most weekends hosting surgeries so that working people can see their MP without taking time off work, and then spend time in our community listening to voters so that I can be as in touch with people as it’s possible to be doing this strange weird, wonderful job.”

Mr Gibson said he understood people “will be angry” about the news but insisted MPs do not decide their own pay, it is instead decided by The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), which sets pay for MPs.  

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He also highlighted the constant abuse, threats and criticism he and other MPs face daily, with many colleagues needing security on community visits.

Mr Gibson added: “I love this job, it’s a huge privilege which I never forget and that’s why I put my absolute all into it, and will continue to do so for as long as the people of Darlington continue to put their trust in me.

“I believe that I offer the people of Darlington value for money.”