THE hearing of the legal suit challenging the tax-free pay awarded to MPs in April this year has ended on Tuesday in the High Court.
Closing submissions will be made today.
The trial started on Monday before Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer.
Parliamentary Wing Leader of the People’s First Party Derrick Manu’ari, who was one of those who challenged the decision in court, gave his evidence.
Minister of Finance and Treasury Snyder Rini and Minister of Environment Samuel Manetoali and another witness gave evidence for the other party.
The controversial award, which sparked public outrage, excluded MPs salaries from being taxed.
In response, a group of citizens, including West Makira MP Mr Manu’ari, challenged the decision in court.
Private lawyer Andrew Radclyffe represents them.
Other claimants are Waeta Ben Tabusasi, Ruth Liloqula, Tony Hughes, and Reverend Mark Graham.
PEC, the body responsible for MPs awards and entitlements, had engaged Sol-Law to represent them in the case.
The Attorney General has been named as one of the defendants in the case.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
