Parliament tourism boss to earn more than an MP

Parliament is recruiting a tourism chief for the historic site - to be paid more than MPs.

A job advert seeks a Head of Visitor Services. Responsibilities include organising once-weekly tours of the World Heritage site and supervising talks and exhibitions.

The successful candidate will be paid up to £74,270 at taxpayers' expense: more than £8,500 above an MP's salary.

Perks include at least 28 days' holiday, interest-free season ticket loan, childcare vouchers and discounted membership of the Parliament gym.

Today campaigners branded the sum "excessive". They pointed out the 75-minute tours of Parliament, which cost £15 for adults and £6 for children, are only available on Saturdays and during the recess.

Emma Boon of the Taxpayers' Alliance said: "Parliamentary staff should be offered fair wages but this seems out of step with what similar roles would offer.

"The top end of the salary range is staggering at a time when spending needs to be cut."

The advert, posted on employment sites with a deadline of today, seeks an "inspiring leader".

A Commons spokesman said the holder of the job deserved to earn potentially more than an MP: "This post is in charge of a large team of staff."