Figures show that the energy regulator has given some staff bonuses in excess of £20,000. Scandal? Fair? Or just a gravy train?

The information was revealed after shadow energy secretary Caroline Flint submitted a written request in parliament.

In summary:

• Two people received over £20,000 in 2010.
• 14 people received £10,000 in 2010 – 2011.
• 38 people received £5,000 in 2010 – 2011.
• Hundreds of staff received smaller amounts.

Ofgem’s spokesperson said: “Ofgem’s pay awards are set in accordance to Cabinet guidance in the same way as for all civil servants. Our base pay has been frozen and the scope and level of performance-related awards has been reduced in line with Government rules.”

Some may ask what they did as to be deemed ‘performing well’. Some say they aren’t even performing at all – Ofgem have been criticised over and over for being ‘toothless’. They have however, introduced Condition 7a to protect ‘micro-businesses’, and their Retail Market Review is still ongoing, which was announced last June.

Robert Oxley, campaign manager of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, said: “It’s outrageous that so many staff are doing so well out of complicated and ineffective policies.”

What do you think?