Conway not the only con!

Today’s Times lists 47 MP’s who employ members of their families. Some of those highlighted are pretty well known parliamentarians. However, when it comes to allowances, members of the House of Commons remain fully committed to protecting their own “first class only ticket gravy train.”

PROPOSAL
To increase staffing budgets from £90505 to up to £102650 a year
FROM
Senior Salaries Review Body
RESPONSE
Accepted and voted through by MP’s last week


PROPOSAL
Spot checks on expenses claims for 30 to 60 MP’s a year by National Audit Office
FROM
Senior Salaries Review Body
RESPONSE
Kicked into the long grass – referred to a panel of MP’s appointed by Michael Martin

PROPOSAL
That receipts be required for all expense claims from MP’s above £50 a month. The current threshold is £250.
FROM
Senior Salaries Review Body
RESPONSE
Kicked into the long grass – referred to a panel of MP’s appointed by Michael Martin


PROPOSAL
More open recruiting methods for MP’s staff
FROM
Sir Alistair Graham, ex standards watch dog.
RESPONSE
Silence

PROPOSAL
That MP’s should publish details of all staff including family members
FROM
Liberal Democrats
RESPONSE
Silence

PROPOSAL
Request for breakdown of how each MP spends housing allowance of £22110
FROM
Freedom of Information campaigners
RESPONSE
Committee chaired by Michael Martin is fighting against disclosure at tribunal.

So you see, South Tyneside only mirrors what goes on nationally!