In the last week I have interviewed for two senior civil service jobs in a specialist area which could have impacts on the lives of large numbers of people.
One paid the same as a Ministers salary plus expenses and the other paid the same as an MP salary plus expenses. Both are based partly in London and partly in another part of the country - much like an MP.
It has been interesting watching this discussion while interviewing for these jobs. In reality a Minister or an MP gets paid roughly the right amount in comparison to a civil servant of similar responsibility and standing.
I have a doctorate and years of professional business experience. It is 36 hour a week job so about half the hours I used to work in the professional commercial jobs I used to work in. I cant live in London on the salaries on offer. I could if my housing costs were paid on expenses.
The truth is that outside of London an MP or Minister salary is quite adequate and fair. Very high London housing costs make the salary of an MP seem low but then again MPs who have bought houses in London on expenses have benefitted hugely from house price inflation.
My bottom line is if you want to earn more go and work in another job. No one is forced to be a MP.