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Poll: public demand frugal living for MPs

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With inflation and strikes gripping the nation, it seems that the public are not in a generous mood when it comes to the perks afforded to our political class. Following Labour’s much-hyped ‘GPC files’, Mr S has done some polling and the results don’t make good living for those in Westminster who enjoy a life of largesse.

Given a set of four options, 40 per cent of the public would put the Foreign Secretary up in a basic hotel for a conference overseas for two nights – though thankfully with their own room. Just 14 per cent would select the kind of five-star accommodation which Rishi Sunak stayed in for the G20 summit in Venice. Some 30 per cent would stretch that to four-star while seven per cent would rather they share a room in a basic hotel.

On a long-haul flight only nine per cent would have the Foreign Secretary fly first class, with 28 per cent going for business, 24 per cent premium economy and 30 per cent economy.

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Steerpike

Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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