My expenses are based on some clear principles. I have never “flipped” main and second homes, my main home has always been, and will always be in Gloucester, with my constituents – a principle I maintained even when I was a minister. I have never played the property market, or avoided taxes – the flat in London is the only property I own, other than our family home in Gloucester. I am informed that since the last general election I have been the second cheapest MP in the county even though I represent the 16th largest electorate in the nation. My claims are lower than MPs from the other parties in the county and each year I look to find further efficiencies – reducing the proportion of the housing allowance I claim.
I do, however, hope that the current system is reformed. I will press the Kelly Enquiry to consider my principles – banning the practice of flipping homes, ensuring MPs are resident in their constituencies and also banning the employment of spouses. Maybe then politicians can start to rebuild the trust of their constituents.
To help do this I will be putting my expenses online to show maximum transparency. I am even publishing this year's invoices taking us right up to the end of the 08/09 financial year
Click on the file below to view my ACA expenses from 2004 right up to April 2009. As you will see there has been no flipping, tax-avoidance, grand pianos, moats or helipads!
ACA EXPENSES
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