The Prime Minister is using taxpayers' money to calm his restless backbench, Greens Leader Bob Brown said today.
 
"Yesterday's announcement on superannuation for MPs is a backflip on just two years ago when Mr Howard described nine per cent super for MPs as "a good idea" and "community standard".
 
"After the coalition split which defeated the harsh new immigration laws last month, Mr Howard is trying to head off a backbench revolt over superannuation. His backflip is unedifying," said Senator Brown.
 
"The proper move to get rid of the too dear super scheme is to reduce the 69% top up going to politicians elected before 2004," Senator Brown said.
 
"Yesterday's proposal has come from collusion between the government, the Remuneration Tribunal and, predictably, the Kim Beazley fell straight into line. I say collusion because no other MPs were consulted," said Senator Brown.
 
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