Fed: PM defends MPs' super as Labor wins support for reforms

AAP General News (Australia)
12-18-2003
Fed: PM defends MPs' super as Labor wins support for reforms

Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD has defended his government's handling of politicians' superannuation
payouts, as Labor wins support for its plans to bring MPs into line with the rest of the
community.

Mr HOWARD and Treasurer PETER COSTELLO both say the government's already reduced the
superannuation perks available to politicians, in line with community expectations.

This follows statements by Opposition Leader MARK LATHAM that Labor will release a
superannuation policy that cuts the payouts available to MPs and senators when they leave
office.

At present, politicians who serve three terms get lifetime pensions well above the average wage.

And those with almost 20 years experience get about $77,000 a year.

Labor says it wants to reduce the taxpayer contribution component to nine per cent
-- the same rate employers contribute to most workers.

And Taxpayers Australia says there will be strong community support for any plan to
reduce politicians' superannuation entitlements.

AAP RTV sw/sb/rt/rp

KEYWORD: SUPER (CANBERRA) WITH AUDIO

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