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Zero tolerance for Tory sleaze

Wednesday, 11th June 2008

The Spectator on why there should be zero tolerance for sleaze

For as long as this image remained, policy statements counted for nothing, however cleverly they might be devised. That is why it is vital that the decontamination process now be completed by tackling the increasingly toxic fumes emanating from the buff folder marked ‘expenses’.

It is one of the strengths of the Conservative party that many of its MPs have come into politics with business experience. There is no need for MPs to feel ashamed of wealth — unless, that is, it has by various wheezes been accumulated from the public purse. There should be no excuses for failing to understand the rules regarding expenses, nor for taking advantage of them. A party which will campaign for the next election on tackling Labour’s gross misspending has no room for MPs who waste taxpayers’ money themselves. Any candidate who fails to understand that, or fears that they cannot sustain their lifestyle on an MP’s pay, should step down and instead seek money-making opportunities in the private sector.

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Richard Holden

June 12th, 2008 9:49am

The MoD spent 1000x as much as the article suggests on its headquaters, spending £2,3 Billion, not million. That could have been spend doing up our service personnels body-armour and accommodation, rather than improving offices.

Melanie Whitehand

June 13th, 2008 4:23pm

It is a shame that these rather damning examples of sleaze may undermine all of the good work done by Team Cameron. If any thing it should add weight to the argument that the E.U. is a gravy train and there is no justification for it! The average Conservative voter is quite possibly furious that these reports will not be helpful in the present political climate.

John James

July 4th, 2008 1:54pm

Our MPs are correctly referred to as "The Honourable..." and are elected to represent us.

It is therefore quite reasonable to expect our MPs, of all political flavours, to behave honourably. That means claiming expenses that those they represent (and who ultimately pay their expenses) would consider reasonable.

It doesn't mean "flexible interpretation" of the rules to fill their pockets to the maximum allowed, let alone dishonesty.

But, perhaps more importantly, a truly honourable man or woman would do his/her best to improve those rules to ensure they are seen to be fair and reasonable. And thereby stamp out any opportunity for abuse by any less-honourable members.

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