Expenses

Monday, 20 April 2009

Many column inches have been devoted by the press to the issue of expenses claimed by MPs. The following videos (shot in April 09) are an initial attempt by me to explain how the system of expenses came about historically, how my office is set up and where the money is spent.

Why have expenses? In a talk to members of the Southport Inner Wheel back in April, I explain how the role of an MP has changed over the past 150 years, the type of work we handle and why I need to employ staff.


Q & A: Here is a short interview where I address issues related to expenses raised in recent months.


My offices and accommodation. This video explains the office set-up in Southport and Westminster, and offers a through-the-keyhole tour of my “second home” in London.


Commuting to work. Being an MP means working in the constituency and Westminster – and that means regular commuting. This 100-second video shows a high-speed trip to Westminster after arriving at Euston and a quick look at my office.


A breakdown of my expenses can be found on www.parliament.uk. Follow this link.

A more detailed breakdown of my expenses can be found on my website here.