Let's look at some facts for a change. These are Paul Rowen's expenses - fairly similar to John's, but less on postage. Also bear in mind that the Lib Dems have had an office in Rochdale for years. Mark Hunter was a new MP, but took over from a Lib Dem, part way through the year in an established office. Why don't you compare John Leech's expenses with those of "AIR MILES ERIC" Joyce, Labour MP, and top spender.
Paul Rowen
Additional Costs Allowance £21,582
London Supplement £0
Incidental Expenses Provision £27,924
Staffing Allowance £75,053
Members' Travel £14,863
Members' Staff Travel £693
Centrally Purchased Stationery £1,483
Stationery: Associated Postage Costs £4,609
Centrally Provided Computer Equipment £1,036
Other Costs £0
Total £147,243
Why don't all you Labour cry babies complain about Andrew Gywnne, MP for Denton & Reddish, who is also a Councillor (and up for election in 2008 like John Leech)? Isn't it rather odd that Cllr Val Stevens should claim that it's against Labour Party policy to remain a Cllr (when she is sniping at John Leech), while Mr Gwynne MP is one. Is Val telling porkies?
Why is it, that nobody has anything to say about Gerald Kaufman paying a member of staff to be his chauffeur? Is that a good use of public money? Perhaps he could try having an office for his constituents to see him in? Does anyone know where Graham Stringer's office is? Or Tony Lloyd's for that matter? Or Paul Goggins? Are they open to the public 5 days a week from 10-4?
Oh, and as for the delightful Suzanne, perhaps you could enlighten us how much your boss spent last year (Arlene McCarthy MEP, for those who don't know). Does Arlene pay the minimum wage to keep down the expenses, or does she pay a proper salary for a proper job?
