MPs 'should get taxpayer-funded iPads' "It seems that this is the future, for the convenience in terms of dealing with all the work MPs have to do, but also because it assists in what is a determined policy of the House - reducing the use of paper," said Sir Alan Haselhurst, chairman of the committee. There is a pretty sure case to say that the supply of these will lead to an overall saving for the public purse. Sir Alan suggested the House of Commons might be able to get a discount if it bought iPads in bulk. However, some cast doubt on whether it would be worth it too supply 650 MPs with devices worth around £400 each at market value, plus monthly subscription costs for downloading data. Emma Boon, a spokesman for the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: "With the public finances in such a mess, the last thing taxpayers want is to fork out for a new toy for every MP. Many members don't want one or need an iPad, or simply prefer paper. Some MPs were getting printed versions of Hansard delivered to their home addresses until recently. It's hard to imagine they'll have any interest in a tablet. Kerry McCarthy, a Labour MP, was the first politician to deliver a speech in the House of Commons from her iPad last March, instead of using printed notes. David Heath, deputy leader of the Commons, then became the first minister to use an iPad at the despatch box in October. MPs are likely to decide whether to adopt the recommendation from the committee later this month.