MPs divided on vote over ‘John Lewis’ list

8:28am Sunday 13th July 2008

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A NORTH Hampshire MP voted to keep the controversial so-called John Lewis list in a vote on politicians' expenses.

James Arbuthnot, MP for North East Hampshire, was among 172 MPs of all parties who opted to retain the additional cost allowance and rejected reforms proposed by a parliamentary committee which would have ditched the benefit.

The perk allows MPs to claim up to £24,000 each a year for household items for their second homes in London, used while they are at the House of Commons.

The list covers items such as televisions, furniture, food and refurbishments. The review of expenses was prompted by the row about MP Derek Conway's payments to his son.

Mr Arbuthnot was not available for comment because he was abroad on duties connected with his role in the Defence Select Committee.

However, fellow Conservative and MP for North West Hampshire Sir George Young voted for the changes.

Sir George, chairman of the Commons standards and privileges committee, said: "I'm disappointed with the way the vote went because MPs should be open and transparent like the rest of the world."

Figures for spending on additional cost allowances show Mr Arbuthnot and Sir George both spent £22,110 between 2006 and 2007 while Basingstoke MP Maria Miller spent £22,080 in the same period.

The review of the allowances had recommended a halt to the furnishings allowance, a full external audit of expenses, all claims to be strictly receipted and a cap on overnight and daily allowances.

Mrs Miller was among more than half of the 646 MPs who snubbed the vote.

She said she did not take part because she felt it should be up to an outside body to decide on expenses rather than MPs.

She added: "The issue of expenses should be dealt with by an outside and independent organisation.

"To have it determined by MPs is outdated and in need of fundamental reform."

Mrs Miller also abstained from voting on the pay increase for MPs for the same reason.

Mr Arbuthnot voted for a pay rise of 4.55 per cent while Sir George voted against it.

MPs, who are paid £61,181 a year, finally settled for a pay rise of 2.25 per cent for this year, which is below the rate of inflation.