SIR, – Your interview with SNP MEP Alyn Smith and his ‘Rant’ at the EU Parliament reminded me of this quote from the 408 BC Greek Comedy Plutus by, Aristophanes.
 “Look at the orators in our republics; as long as they are poor, both state and people can only praise their uprightness; but once they are fattened on the public funds, they conceive a hatred for justice, plan intrigues against the people and attack the democracy.”
The average income of MEPs, including attendance and travel allowances, is £182,826.
 

Gordon Rennie
Stenton Farm
St Monans
Fife