From the Enquirer:
ESSEX MPs could have their second home allowance reinstated in plans released by the expenses watchdog.
The allowance was scrapped for many local MPs at the last election after public outrage at members claiming expenses for a second property in London while living within a commutable distance of Westminster.
Currently MPs living in what is known as the ?London Area? are given a ?3,760 allowance for travel expenses into the capital while other MPs living further afield are allowed a second home in London alongside their constituency home.
If the plans are approved it would mean Essex MPs could once again charge for a house within their constituency and another property in London.
The ?London Area? currently includes constituencies stretching as far as Castle Point and Billericay ? but does not include Rayleigh, Wickford and Southend.
Full article here.
Why do Essex MPs often have two homes? Brentwood MP (and now government minister) Eric Pickles tried to put over his point of view at Question Time earlier this year – but most people thought he just dug himself into a deeper and deeper hole.
one of my offspring is working in city of Westminster for the forseeable future , leaves the house at 5.30am. If mortal man can do this why cant our notsobeloved MPs??? No heavily subsidised restaurant etc either.