There cannot be many (I was tempted to write ‘any’) who doubt that the rules surrounding MPs’ expenses are in desperate need of reform.
Some claims have beggared belief. Clearly, it looks as if the streets of London are paved with gold for some who recline on the green leather benches.
But I urge caution in our commentary.
I hesitate not in promoting the outing of cheats. Those who evidently put self before service have no place in the Labour party.
But, many of what look like outrageous claims do have good explanations. Most MPs are not on the take; let’s remind ourselves that the headlines have not highlighted even as many as 10 per cent of MPs – although since it is early days we may find the Telegraph does get around to stories for all in the House of Commons.
Where caution must be had is that I do not want us all promising to don hair-shirts upon election. I am standing for parliament, and would expect a decent salary and legitimate expenses to be paid. These allegations must not panic us into having a democracy on the cheap.
I juggle being a parent, a worker, a school governor, and a local football referee with being a parliamentary candidate. My biggest sacrifice is not financial but is in time. It is a rare luxury to have a blank day, time entirely for my family.
I do not expect this to cease after election – stories of long hours are too numerous for them to be the invention of MPs’ expansive imaginations. This dedication and hard work should be justly rewarded.
Finally, I do not complain about being poorer than my opponents – c’est la vie. In fact, I consider this an advantage; I do not have to imagine myself into the shoes of the average voter – I am that man. The Labour party is the party of the people and should be represented by those who inhabit that realm.
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