The House of Commons authorities have today published my claim forms and receipts online for the years 2005/6 to 2007/8.

You can download these by clicking here: Parliament.uk

I welcome the publication of MPs Allowances and Expenses on the House of Commons website. The public has a right to know how their money is being spent. I have always tried to keep the cost of running my offices as low as possible, ever mindful that it is Taxpayers’ money we are spending. I have claimed considerably less than neighbouring MPs and endeavoured to keep my constituents advised about my expenses.

I have been as shocked as anyone at some of the MPs claims that have been reported, especially involving the Additional Costs or second home allowances. In the twenty-first century and with more family friendly hours at the Commons outer London MPs and those within commutable distance of Westminster should not have been allowed to claim for second homes.

Radical reform is needed of the whole system to restore the electorate’s faith in Parliament. A new Speaker will be a start, and I await the Kelly report on reform with interest and hope.

For information:-

ADDITIONAL COSTS ALLOWANCE

I have not claimed for a second home, accommodation or food.

TRAVEL

I commute to Westminster by car or train.

OFFICE EXPENSES (INCIDENTAL EXPENSES PROVISION)

The claims were made for facilities and equipment used exclusively in pursuit of, and in connection with, my duties as an MP.

My claims for office expenses (IEP) over the period 2005/8 are among the lowest 20 claimants out of 646 MPs and are used to ensure a good service to my constituents, to be able to represent my constituency, and to be able to run efficient and effective offices. The largest expense (£600 a month) has been the cost of my local office (rent, services, equipment, facilities). I work here on a Friday, during Parliamentary Recesses, and hold local meetings and Surgeries. I purchase the services of the House of Commons Parliamentary Research Unit (which provides extra research material and information). I have claimed around £50 a week Petty Cash for the Offices’ general costs (computer paper and ink cartridges, box files, mobile phones, postage, stationery, Data Protection Registration, specialist publications, office equipment, etc).

CURRENT STAFF
Cynthia Evans (Secretary/PA), Matthew Scott (Research/Parliamentary Assistant), Aneeka Patel (Case Worker).

I was pleased to be named 13th best value MP by the Sunday Telegraph 2007/8, and to be among the lowest 20 claimant MPs by the Sunday Times for the period 2005/8.