MPs to give up some privileges (Russia cuts government)

Russia Journal ^ | February 03, 2005

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MOSCOW - In the near future, the State Duma will limit some of the existing privileges of the deputies. The respective amendments to the law on the status of MPs have been suggested. Oleg Kovalyov, chairman of the committee for parliamentary procedures, told reporters yesterday that the new bill had already been approved by the government, and it would soon be submitted to the lower house and debated by the lawmakers.

According to Kovalyov, it is planned to introduce some limits for the deputies relating to the cost of housing, transport and telecommunication services. Specifically, the deputies will have to pay public utility fees, and their expenditures on transport and telecommunications will be limited. Kovalyov noted that while at present, telecommunication services for MPs were free without any limitations, the new law would provide for limited access to free services.

Changes will also apply to the deputies' assistants. Their status will become equal to that of civil servants, and their salaries will equal those of specialists and consultants. Additionally, special requirements will be specified for such assistants. They will no longer be deputies' relatives and friends but adequate qualifications and full-time work in the State Duma will be required. In Kovalyov's opinion, these changes will facilitate more efficient use of budget funds.

[xJones]

There is no way the U.S. Senate and House would let that go through here. Hillary Clinton, for one Senator, has an entourage of 60 flunkies she travels with. Just damn....