MPs to receive end of year pay rise

Bowen House, the Beehive and Parliament. Photo / Mark Mitchell

While many people struggle financially at Christmas, politicians will be enjoying early holiday cheer with a pay rise.

The independent Remuneration Authority has again made an end of year recommendation for a pay increase for the MPs.

Prime Minister John Key said said today he was comfortable with politicians getting more in their pay packets this year.

Since 2005, backbencher salaries have risen by $24,000 to $141,000.

Over the same period the Prime Minister's rose by $64,510 to $411,510.

Mr Key said the Remuneration Authority had recommended a "small increase''.

"It seems to be in line with the national average, maybe slightly lower, so I've written back saying in principle we're comfortable with that,'' he told 3 News.

The pay rise, to be confirmed on Thursday, would be back-paid - giving politicians a Christmas lump sum.