MPs support regional committees

Critics say the cost of the committees outweigh the benefits

MPs have backed government plans to set up new select committees for English regions despite widespread concerns over their cost and political make-up.

A rebel amendment calling for those MPs chairing the committees not to be paid over and above their basic Westminster salary was passed by two votes.

Ministers believe the eight committees will improve regional accountability.

But one Labour MP argued the new bodies would increase ministerial patronage and threaten Parliament's independence.

'Accountability gap'

The government carried the vote to establish the committees, which are estimated will cost about