news story

18th May 2009

MP Expenses: Urgent Action Needed

People have understandably been appalled by some of the revelations on MPs’ expenses over the last few days.  I certainly share this anger about the way that some MPs have abused the system.  All allegations should be fully investigated and firm action taken against those who have misused taxpayers’ money.

For my part, I have said publicly that I will not make a penny in private profit from being an MP. I stay overnight in London in a one-bedroom flat and when that is sold every penny of profit will go to the taxpayer - I won't take a penny.

The only system that will now command public confidence is one set independently - not by MPs - with every claim being independently audited. We also need total transparency, such as every claim being published on the Internet as soon as it is made.

For those of us who still believe that politics can be a force for good, it has been a depressing period, but I will continue to serve the people of this area as I always have done.

A general breakdown of my expenses has always been available on my website here and I am always happy to answer specific questions that my constituents might want to ask me.