MPs facing housing allowance cuts as they live so close to Westminster (From News Shopper)

MPs facing housing allowance cuts as they live so close to Westminster

3:11pm Wednesday 2nd July 2008

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TWO MPs could have the allowance they use to pay for their second homes cut because their constituencies are so close to Westminster.

A review by the House of Commons Members Estimate Committee has recommended the allowance to cover travel and housing costs for when MPs go to Parliament should be cut in half for those with outer London constituencies.

Beckenham MP Jacqui Lait and Bromley and Chislehurst MP Bob Neill both have houses out of the borough which they consider their main homes.

They have been claiming the Additional Costs Allowance to pay for second homes in their constituency, which are within 12 miles of Parliament.

In 2006/7, all MPs outside inner London could claim up to £22,110.

Mr Neill claimed £21,222 and Mrs Lait claimed £15,301 for their constituency homes.

Before the review, Mr Neill said the money was claimed to pay for mortgage costs, removal costs and stamp duty on his Chislehurst home.

He said: "What I think is important is a reform of the system.

"I have no problem with tightening up the system.

"It would be better for an independent body to decide."

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