Greek Parliament adopted a proposal tabled by Greek Parliamentary Speaker Nikos Voutsis aimed at cutting benefits and privileges granted to former prime ministers, speakers of the house and heads of parliamentary groups. The move was part of the changes made to the Standing Orders of Parliament to cut costs. All parties approved the propoal with the exeption of Golden Dawn.

The bill foresees the gradual abolition of the more than 40 revocable employees working for former officials of Greek Parliament, and also focuses on the relocation of the offices of those who have not been re-elected MPs to places outside the main building.

Unlike other bills passed through using fast-track procedures, debate on this particular bill will conclude over summer. It is aimed at “increasing the parliament’s transparency and modernization,” says Voutsis.

The procedure is expected to end in 2016.