The political salaries framework and salaries have not been adjusted since they were in effect in 2011.

A review of political salaries was to be conducted every five years. In 2017, an independent review committee concluded that the framework set out in the White Paper on “Salaries for a Capable and Committed Government” remained sound. The committee noted that benchmark salaries had increased since the last review, and recommended adjusting political salaries annually in line with the movement of the benchmark salaries. However, the Government decided not to make any changes then due to economic transitions. The political salaries therefore were kept as they were.

In 2023, the Government shared that it had decided to defer the review given the uncertain external environment and the downside risks in the global economy at that time.   

Three years on, it is clear that geopolitical and economic conditions are likely to prevail for some time. However, we cannot hold off changes indefinitely as it is critical for us to plan ahead to have a highly capable and committed political leadership to steer the country through future challenges. Given that the salary structure and salaries have not been updated since they were in effect in 2011, it is timely to undertake a review.

In 2026, the Government convened an independent committee to review the salary framework. The Committee will submit its report to the Government when ready, after which the Government will consider its findings and provide an update to Parliament.