Tory councillors express varied views on MP expenses

Blaine Robin, Conservative councillor for the Kursaal ward in Southend, has rallied behind Tory MP James Duddridge over the latter’s expenses claims.

Mr Duddridge published his expenses online earlier this month and has since received criticism for using his expenses to pay for refurbishments and mortgage payments on both his homes.

Cllr Robin, who is also the deputy chairman of Rochford and Southend East Conservative Association, told the Echo:

“James is our MP and puts people first. James is really active with surgeries he holds and answering people’s inquiries.

“The association back him, but we also want improvements and quick changes to the expenses system. Change is needed to help restore confidence. Joe Bloggs has been put off politics and politicians, but hopefully it will get better.

 “I can understand their anger. People I have spoken to about it say if it was them, it would be counted as fraud. MPs will now have to account for their expenses and the sooner the Kelly report recommends a modern, tighter system, the better.”

 Cllr Robin did not express a specific opinion when it came to the question of the legitimacy of second home allowances for MPs, and said:

 “The intricacies of the system are bigger than me and a special committee will look at that.

 “If MPs need to be in the House until 2am and can’t get home, it needs a system in place to support those people, but it’s got to be practical.”

 Cllr Roger Hadley, Conservative representative for Shoebury, however, had more radical views on MPs’ second home allowances. He said:

 “I believe there should be accommodation in London, purpose-built or acquired for MPs. It could be run by Parliament with heating and bills paid for.

“That way everyone is on an equal footing and we can do away with the second home allowance.”