MSPs who preside over committees to receive £15,500 salary boost after unanimous approval

Committee conveners at the Scottish Parliament will receive a 20% pay rise after plans to reward those taking on extra responsibilities were unanimously approved.

The idea was floated earlier this year by the presiding officer, Kenneth Gibson, to reflect the “significant additional demands” some MSPs are required to take on.

Following a unanimous decision by the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body, committee conveners will receive a salary increase of 20% of their existing salary from April 2027.

In total, 16 MSPs who chair committees are set to benefit from the uplift of around £15,500.

The current basic rate for an MSP is £77,711, and with a 20% uplift, this would rise to £93,253, which is still below the basic rate for MPs in the UK Parliament, at £98,599.

Scotland is the only one of the four home nations whose parliament does not provide additional money for greater responsibility.

In a letter to conveners confirming the decision, Gibson said: “Our committees really are at the heart of what we, as a Parliament, do.

“Not only ensuring that the Parliament holds the Government to account, but that we are hearing from people across Scotland about the issues that matter to them.

“It was clear to me at conveners group on November 4 how committed each and every one of you is to your leadership role as convener.

“I am acutely aware from my own experience however, of the additional demands that come with these positions.”

The plans will now be subject to Parliament’s approval, with Gibson alluding to further reforms in the future.

He added: “Over the coming months, I hope to say more about my plans for further parliamentary reform and strengthening the ties between Holyrood, its committees and communities across Scotland.

“Conveners and their committees will have a vital role to play in this work reconnecting the Parliament and the people.”