Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

Public Sector Exit Payments Bill - Not specified, but relates to limiting large exit payments in the public sector

20 October 2023 · 4 other contributors

Opened by Christopher Chope Con Christchurch

TaxationLocal Government

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Christopher Chope raised concerns about public sector exit payments bill - not specified, but relates to limiting large exit payments in the public sector in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Mr Chope expressed concerns about the high cost of exit payments in the public sector, estimating it could reach 1 billion annually.
  • The minister acknowledged the concerns about the high value of exit payments but stressed the importance of handling the issue responsibly.
  • The minister committed to reviewing the August 2022 consultation paper to ensure fair and proportionate exit payments.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Christopher Chope Con Christchurch

Mr. Chope raised concerns about the excessive amount of money being paid out as exit payments in the public sector, which he believes is unfair to taxpayers and local government council tax payers. He suggested that the cost to the Exchequer could be up to £1 billion a year and urged the Government to take control of this issue.

Other contributors (4)
  • Roger Gale Con Herne Bay and Sandwich

    Acknowledged that there was an error in starting late but called for the Minister's response. Did not provide key arguments, focused on procedural aspects.

  • Andrew Griffith Con Arundel and South Downs

    Agreed with Mr. Chope's concerns about public sector exit payments being too high for taxpayers. Stated that the Government shares these concerns but has been working on a balanced approach to address them through consultation and legislation.

  • Philip Davies Con not specified constituency

    Asked whether large exit payments will be agreed for public sector workers facing disciplinary proceedings if they choose to leave instead of facing those proceedings, questioning the fairness and transparency.

  • Christopher Chope Con Christchurch

    Reiterated his concerns about the lack of action from the Government since 2015. Urged the Minister to respond immediately to the August 2022 consultation paper, questioning why nothing has been done despite multiple consultations.

Government Response

Andrew Griffith

Acknowledged concerns about exit payments being too high for taxpayers but emphasised the need to address this issue responsibly. Promised to review the August 2022 consultation paper and ensure fair, proportionate exit payments while considering existing public sector arrangements and union consultations.

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