CNA Explains: What goes into an MP’s allowance and what is it used for?

“Fulfilling these duties well requires strong commitment and hard work from an MP,” the independent review committee said in its report.

The allowance typically goes towards expenses incurred in discharging MP duties. This includes transport costs for grassroots events, attending parliamentary committee sessions and official briefings.

It also covers less visible costs such as buying food and refreshments for volunteers or giving “bai jin” – condolence money – at wakes within the constituency. MPs with smaller networks of grassroots supporters may rely on the allowance more heavily to fund such activities.

MPs are paid an allowance for the time and expenses incurred in carrying out these roles. Most serve on a part-time basis, letting them bring experience from other fields into parliamentary debate.

Why is an allowance increase necessary?

Mr Chan, who delivered a ministerial statement in parliament after Mr Wong on Tuesday, said the increase was to account for inflation.

Mr Wong said providing a proper allowance has enabled both the People’s Action Party and the Workers’ Party to recruit and field strong candidates.

“We can see the result in this House. We have MPs with a wide range of backgrounds and experience, who bring different perspectives to our debates,” he said.

“We may disagree strongly across the aisle, but the quality of debate is high, and Singapore is better for it.”