Every government for the past 14 years has told us there's no money, that we need to pay another rise in council tax, another rise in electricity and gas, another rise in water bills.
Alternatively, it could be linked to some other policy area of public concern, such as a 2% reduction in NHS waiting lists or a 2 per cent reduction in small boat arrivals, which could translate into a 2% pay rise.
News of a pay rise for MPs has sparked backlash, with many criticising the move given the ongoing cost of living crisis and stagnant public wages.
MPs have been granted a pay rise that outpaces inflation, sparking debate over whether they deserve higher wages while many in the UK are struggling with the cost of living.
Many felt it was unjust for politicians to receive a generous pay increase when public sector workers face stagnant wages and households are grappling with rising bills.
