Conservative MP for Rochford and Southend East James Duddridge has published on his website the details of the expenses he has claimed.
In particular, Mr Duddridge has explained in detail his reasons for keeping a second home in London and claiming for it on his expenses.
He writes:
“A number of constituents have asked me why I have a second home in London considering that the commute from Thorpe Bay to Westminster is just under two hours.
“I appreciate that a number of constituents do not find this appropriate, and that over 20,000 people commute from Southend everyday, many of whom do not work a traditional working day.
“Members of Parliaments’ working hours are unfortunately not very commuter friendly, as my work demands very early starts and I often finish work at midnight, or later.
“To use last week as an example the House sat until 10.30pm on Monday, until 2am on Tuesday and on Wednesday I was in House of Commons until 10pm.
“In all candour this example is an exceptional week, however I rarely expect to leave much before midnight on Mondays or Tuesdays.
“That Thursday I had appointments in both London and Southend and so returned from London earlier to attend these meetings.
“Fridays are reserved for a full day of constituency engagements, as are most weekends.
“Most mornings when I have stayed in London overnight I get into the office around 7.30am in order to prepare for the day and clear my email.
“Overnight I review a box of constituency casework and any mail that I have not had the chance to deal with during the day.”
