Ilkley MP Ann Cryer has slammed 'greedy' Yorkshire Water chiefs for awarding themselves large bonuses.

Mrs Cryer said the decision by company directors to claim 30 per cent bonuses was appalling.

The Ilkley MP has promised to raise the matter with Chancellor Gordon Brown and Consumer Affairs Minister Nigel Griffiths.

The bonus increases come just weeks after news that water bills in the region have increased by 30 per cent - and during a year which has seen a 12 per cent rise in customer complaints.

It also follows a plea to company directors by Mr Brown for them to show some restraint and responsibility with regard to salaries.

Mrs Cryer said: "There are people in my constituency struggling on low incomes, struggling to pay their water rates."

Yorkshire Water has defended the move, claiming such bonuses are necessary to attract and retain the right calibre of director for the firm.

The extra payouts mean chief executive Kevin Bond will receive an extra £55,000 on top of his basic salary of £185,000.

Pressure group Water Watch claim the Yorkshire Water directors have simply been rewarded for turning up to work.

Campaigns manager Peter Bowler said: "There have been improvements in company performance but achieving standards set by the regulator is exactly what the directors are paid to do."

"Yorkshire Water seems to be sticking two fingers up to the Chancellor and I should think customers will feel that they are being taken for a ride yet again," he said.

Mrs Cryer's comments came as Bradford South MP Gerry Sutcliffe said: "It is outrageous when the Chancellor is trying to create a stable economy.

"It shows they are totally out of touch with the public."

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