I AM surprised that the practice of publishing the cost of food in the Palace of Westminster has lapsed and many pages have been withdrawn. However, it seems that a three-course meal in the House in 2019 (duck terrine, rib-eye steak and a crumble) would have cost something less than £20.

This contrasts with the expected cost of parcels for those in food poverty of around £30 for a full week, and even then, the food actually delivered by Government contractors can be purchased at a supermarket for a fraction of that cost. The Government has refused to increase the minimum wage, has callously allowed employers to sack their workers and then re-employ them at much reduced pay and conditions and, finally, imposed a pay freeze on the majority of public-sector workers.

Although the benefit freeze is due to end this year, it is expected that the rise will be 1.7%, less than £30 for those on Universal Credit. MPs received a pay rise of 3.1% this year, and a 2.7% rise the year before. How can this blatant self-interest be justified, in total contradiction with the Tories expressed intention of governing in the interests of all the people of the UK? No wonder faith in politicians is at an all-time low and Scots are looking forward to taking control of their own affairs.

Pete Rowberry

Duns