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Only four MPs have declined to accept their controversial 26 per cent pay rises, it was disclosed yesterday. The Leader of the House of Commons, Tony Newton, said the four - who have not been named - had contacted the Commons fees office to say they did not want to receive the pounds 9,000- a-year increase.

The information was disclosed by Mr Newton in response to a question by the Labour MP for Walsall North, David Winnick. Mr Winnick, who was among those from all parties to back the increases, said: "It is an interesting reply because a lot, lot more voted against it. It is odd to vote against and then accept the increase."