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Originally Posted by 1andrew1
I actually found it an encouraging statistic. I don't think MPs should have a second job but happy for them to do CPD or if necessary, pro bono work, to retain their qualifications and institutional memberships.
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Yes, it is a slippery slope, and a very tempting one. I spent a while as a consultant (not simultaneously as an MP mind you!) and the way pay is calculated as a day rate in which it is assumed you are your own employer and will be paying all your NI, sick pay, holiday pay, pension etc out of it makes it an extremely attractive way to work that few people in their right minds would give up easily or willingly. I didn’t; the financial crash of 2008 pulled the rug right out from under me. You can see why someone who possibly expects to serve only a couple of terms in Parliament (as many do) would want to keep their hand in, even if there isn’t a professional accreditation to maintain, but you can also see how that sort of money can prompt questions about conflicts of interest.
The idea about doing pro bono or CPD only is an intriguing one, but doesn’t entirely eliminate the whiff of corruption if that work gives a third party unfair access to or influence over government.