MPs are the latest public-sector workers to become embroiled in central governments planned pay deals.

A Senior Salaries Review Body report has recommended that MPs should receive above-inflation pay rises for the next three years, of 2.56%. This surpasses offers made to teachers (2.45%) and the police (1.9%).

But the prime minister wants to block the pay increases to bring them in line with other public-sector workers. He is pushing for a 1.9% rise.

Unions have criticised the plans announced last week to subject other public-sector workers to a below-inflation three-year pay deal. Unisons general secretary has warned Government not to pick a fight with Unison members.

Controversially, MPs have the right to vote on their own salary, and could push through the pay rise.

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