How come that a small number of PL supporters hope to become members of the European Parliament in early June, bearing in mind that they came through under the weak and disastrous leadership of Sant/Vella who were totally against the idea.

It makes you wonder whether the salary and perks play a big part in what the attraction is all about.

In so far as I know, each MEP receives a salary of e84,000 a year, is given e48,000 in allowances for food and accommodation based on four days a week (40 weeks per year); e200,000 in allowances for staff who may include family members, friends or girl and boy friend; another e14,000 in travelling allowances and a final e48,000 for constituency office costs (one can also use his house as an office).

Moreover, the final salary pension after five years as MEP amounts to e14,000 which doubles to e28,000 after 10 years, and goes up to e42,000 after 15 years, e56,000 after 20 years and e70,000 after 25 years in office, and e84,000 after 30 years.

I am told that these figures are index linked and receipts are not required.

The Brussels gravy train will arrive in Malta on 6 June and the Maltese people will select five people to enjoy the life of a millionaire for a minimum of five years.

Carm Zerafa

LONDON