Government plans to change the way politicians’ expenses are paid is the subject of a consultation.

A government press release describes it as ‘improving legislation around payments made to people serving the community across a range of public sector roles’.

The intention is to bring forward a Bill to replace the Payment of Members’ Expenses Act 1989, which specifically dealt with politicians.

The new law will include remuneration of members of various offices and bodies. It does not deal with full-time civil servants, for example.

The press release says: ‘This would better reflect how payments – such as annual sums and allowances – are being made, or should be made, in the 21st century.

‘The consultation builds on work undertaken during the last administration under the Programme for Government. This included an internal consultation in 2017 that highlighted a number of practical issues which, in some instances, were reported to limit the availability of suitably-qualified and experienced people to sit on government bodies and tribunals.’

The Treasury is now seeking views from interested parties on the key policy proposals that will underpin new payments legislation. The consultation covers a total of 10 different policy proposal areas.

The consultation document is available to view and download from the government consultation hub at consult.gov.im

Alternatively, written comments can be emailed to [email protected] or by post to Policy and Legislation Office, The Treasury, 1st Floor, Government Office, Buck’s Road, Douglas, IM1 3PU. To request a printed copy of the consultation, call 685605.

The process will conclude at 5pm on January 6.