LOCAL MPs are divided as to whether they should accept the £9,000 pay rise they have awarded themselves.

South Ribble MP Robert Atkins, who voted for the 26 per cent increase, has opted not to take it himself. He already earns more than £10,000 in addition to his salary from his work as a parliamentary consultant for bookmakers William Hill.

Preston MP Audrey Wise will take the cash despite refusing to vote on the issue. She believes MPs shouldn't have to set their own rates of pay.

But Mr Atkins this week made it clear he believed that MPs deserved their salaries and claimed he led a moderate lifestyle.

He said: "We haven't had a family holiday for five years. I drive a car with 75,000 miles on the clock and we don't live an ostentatious lifestyle."

Mrs Wise in contrast, will be taking a camping holiday in Scotland but she won't be spending her pay rise on a new car. She doesn't own one.

She said: "I normally travel by train and I think that's by far the best way. I am also a supporter of the railways and public transport is more environmentally friendly."

MP for the Ribble Valley Nigel Evans voted for just a three per cent rise but was unavailable for comment as to whether he would be taking the full 26 per cent.

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