Old Bexley and Sidcup MP James Brokenshire has revealed to News Shopper how a funded trip to Israel has informed his parliamentary role.

The recently published Register of Members’ Financial Interests details payments made to MPs, the nature of the work they carry out in return, and the number of hours this takes and the organisation making the payment.

Mr Brokenshire is a non-practising solicitor and does not work outside of his MP role but he did accept a free trip to Israel from Conservative Friends of Israel for himself and his wife in May, worth more than £1,000.

The 46-year-old, who is also Immigration Minister at the Home Office, said the purpose of the visit of the donation was "visits and tours to various parts of Israel to inform a clearer understanding of
Israel and the issues facing the region".

He told the News Shopper: "I have not taken on any additional employment to my duties as a MP other than my complimentary role as a Government Minister.

"However, I recognise the wealth of expertise which those with experiences outside of Parliament can bring to debate and discussion.

"Perspectives on international political events can also be enhanced by visits supported by outside organisations - subject to the transparency that registration of MP's interests provides."

Bexleyheath and Crayford MP David Evennett does not work or have financial interests outside of parliament but he used to work as a teacher, an insurance broker, a director in the city and a lecturer.

Visit publications.parliament.uk