Guide to the European Parliament

Until this year MEPs received the same salary as members of their national parliaments. As a result, Italian MEPs earned four times more than their Spanish counterparts - and about 14 times more than MEPs from some new member states.

A new salaries and expenses system now applies to MEPs elected in June 2009.

The standard monthly payment for all MEPs has been set at 7,665 euros - roughly equivalent to what German MEPs already earn. The new salary was also roughly on a par with a British MP's salary, until the pound fell against the euro. While the pound is weak, MEPs will earn more than MPs.

MEPs also get a flat-rate monthly allowance to cover office expenses and travel in their home country. This is 4,202 euros.

In addition, MEPs can claim for travel related to their official duties in Brussels and Strasbourg. In the past they could claim for an expensive flexible economy class flight even if they flew low-fare. But under the new rules they will have to submit their ticket (which can be business class on air, or first class on rail) and will be reimbursed for what they paid.

MEPs also get a daily subsistence allowance - now 298 euros - for attendance at parliamentary sessions.