Worthing's MPs reveal expenses claims after public outrage
REACTION to the MPs' expenses saga – both in Worthing and nationally – has flooded into the Herald.
Herald revealed the expenses claimed by Worthing MPs Tim Loughton and Peter Bottomley for 2007/08 totalled 272,578 – with Mr Loughton claiming 145,975 and Mr Bottomley 126,603.
Mr Loughton, MP for East Worthing and Shoreham, and Mr Bottomley, who represents Worthing West,spoke about their claims as anger continued to rise over MPs' expenses, partially the second homes allowance.
All MPs have an annual salary of 64,766.
Expenses break-down
Amid growing anger, both MPs have sent in a break-down of their expenses claims, to show the people of Worthing where their money is going.
To read Peter Bottomley's claims click here.
To read Tim Loughton's claims click here.
Readers' reaction
Herald readers have reacted to the MPs' expenses saga with some calling for a reformed system, something both Mr Loughton and Mr Bottomley have also backed.
But S. Burvill, of Strathmore Road, Worthing, goes one step further and said second homes should be "stopped immediately" and adds: "All candidates must live within the constituency boundary at their own expense (like everyone else)."
Mike Howard, of Orient Road, Lancing, wrote to the Herald and said: "The problem lies not with the system but with those MPs who fail to behave honourably.
"So long as we keep voting for them, regardless of any changes made to the system, I suspect MPs will still find ways to line their pockets."
Not surprised
Bill Geddes, of Lansdowne Road, Worthing, also wrote to the Herald and said the expenses revelations were "neither surprising nor shocking".
He added: "These people are our representatives and as such, they have a responsibility to maintain high moral standards."
Ian Ross, Labour's parliamentary candidate for Worthing West, said: "Being an MP is not an excuse to stick your hand in the taxpayers' pocket and help yourself.
"It's not just wrong now, it has always been wrong."
Poll result
Last week we asked readers whether they thought there should be tougher rules on what expenses MPs can claim.
The result was an overwhelming yes with 90 per cent of the vote.
Only 10 per cent did not think the rules should be tougher.
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Monday 13 February 2012
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