Today I have organised a letter signed by over two hundred parliamentary colleagues to Ruth Evans, the Chair of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority over the issue of constituency and parliamentary staff pay.

The news that MPs are set to receive an above inflation pay rise is disappointing and out of step with the feelings of many of my colleagues. But, the news that members of staff in our constituency and parliamentary officers, on the front-line assisting constituents with often complex cases are set for a below inflation 1.5% rise is simply not acceptable.

This will effectively mean a pay cut for hardworking public servants because of the ever increasing cost of living. At at time when support services are being cut. The work of our staff has never been more important in providing advice, support and offering practical help for often the most vulnerable in our society.

I hope the significant number of signatories and the many high profile MPs whom have lent their support to this letter will ensure that this issue is readdressed and a more acceptable offer put in place.