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Parliamentary perks scandal takes in Springsteen concert

Two Victorian MPs were reportedly chauffeured to Bruce Springsteen's regional concert in ministerial cars.

Two Victorian MPs were reportedly chauffeured to Bruce Springsteen's regional concert in ministerial cars. Photo: Getty

The Victorian parliamentary perks scandal has been reignited with revelations two MPs used chauffeured ministerial cars to get to and from a Bruce Springsteen concert at Hanging Rock last month.

Attorney-General Martin Pakula and Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan clocked up 150km for the return journey in separate taxpayer-funded cars to see “The Boss” on February 11.

Mr Pakula defended he and his colleague on Friday evening, saying they were on government business.

“I was invited to the event in my official capacity as Minister,” he said in a statement.

“Jacinta Allen and I talked to the organisers about how we can draw more events to regional Victoria in the future.”

Premier Daniel Andrews on Thursday announced all parliamentary allowances were under review after the Speaker and his deputy resigned for claiming $140,000 between them to live in seaside towns rather than their electorates.

The claims are being investigated by Special Minister of State Gavin Jennings and parliament’s audit committee.

Opposition MP Brad Battin accused Mr Andrews of “covering up” tax rorts by his Labor colleagues.

“The rorting from the Andrews Labor government is simply a disgrace. The premier is failing to address the issue. He is more interested in covering up and protecting his mates than doing the right thing,” he said

However, Mr Andrews on Thursday said he would commit to providing greater public disclosure on parliamentary allowances.

Possible changes to the entitlements will be announced in the coming weeks.

– AAP

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