News from Sheffield Labour

Sheffield Labour MPs: Statement on Allowances

We have always believed, and acted on the assumption, that Parliamentary Allowances were designed to allow MPs to do their jobs effectively.

We have always submitted our claims, receipted as appropriate, in accordance with both the spirit and intention of the rules and guidance. Our records and accounts have always been available for inspection by the finance officers of the House and by the auditors. In the interests of transparency, we will all publish details of our expenses as soon as practically possible.

Frankly, we have been amazed by some of the information that has recently come to light; both about the nature of some claims and that, apparently, some of those claims have been met. It is clear from that information that the rules for making claims and for approving them have not been sufficiently robust.

Although we have acted in the spirit of the rules and guidance, we accept that many of the recent revelations have damaged trust in and respect for Parliament. We are pleased that Parliament has now agreed to tighten the scrutiny of claims and to improve both internal and external audit arrangements. 
The Prime Minister has apologised for the collective failing of some in relation to the use of allowances and we are all agreed that it is crucial that everyone should follow the new, tighter rules and act quickly once the recommendations about future arrangements are made by the Committee on Standards in Public Life.

Clive Betts MP (Sheffield Attercliffe)
David Blunkett MP (Sheffield Brightside)
Richard Caborn MP (Sheffield Central)
Meg Munn MP (Sheffield Heeley)
Angela Smith MP (Sheffield Hillsborough)

Other news from Sheffield Labour

• Station Bridge roundtable with Transport Ministers announced - 8 February 2012
• Paul Blomfield MP slams Tory "ambush" of Government Fair Access Director - 8 February 2012
• Angela Smith MP highlights economic problems faced by Barnsley - 7 February 2012