Questions have been raised about the use of expenses by elected officials after reports showed unusual discrepancies.
'Entitled to be fed'
In Reading deputy leader of RBC, Labour's Cllr Tony Page, defended his choice to claim nearly 20-times more in travel expenses than any other councillor - he said, "it may come as a shock... but [travel] does cost money."
Cllr Page argued his claim was a "very, very low sum" which "represented excellent value for money."
The millionaire property-speculator and freelance PR consultant - who has been a councillor for three decades since he was first elected aged 17 - explained he is Reading's official delegate on 12 outside bodies, roles which require him to attend meetings in London on average twice-a-week. He claimed £1,200 on top of his regular allowances of £14,000.
He said, "obviously the cost of these trips are born by the council because they are council business... I think I'm entitled to be fed."
As one commenter suggests, a phrase with the words 'snout' and 'trough' comes to mind...
Chauffeur 'improves efficiency'
Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner, West Berks Conservative Cllr Anthony Stansfeld, hit national headlines for claiming inflated travel expenses - at the rate of £20.000pa to enable him to pay a retainer to a chauffeur - on top of his £85,000 PCC salary and £15,000 regular councillor allowances!
After his election in November, Cllr Stansfeld took
office and lodged a claim for mileage of
£7.20 for 16 miles in January. This figure then rocketed by 6,000% to
1,005 miles and £452.25 in February and 1,334 miles at a cost of £611.90
in March.
At a recent meeting of the
Thames Valley Police and Crime Panel Buckingham Town Councillor
Jon Harvey mockingly highlighted the expense claim by dressing in full driver's uniform and peaked hat, arguing it was out of touch with the current period of austerity.
Conservative chums jumped to the PCC's defence. Panel member for West Berkshire Cllr Graham Jones called the criticism was 'ludicrously overblown', while Newbury's Richard Benyon MP gets things completely wrong by downplaying it as 'a ridiculous non-story' - overlooking the level of comment which brought the facts to the attention of this blog!
Cllr Stansfeld denied setting up a 'sham office' to deliberately defraud tax-payers, saying his decision was designed to 'improve efficiency' - based upon making better use of his 'non-productive time' during the 35-mile journeys between the one-room PCC office he located at Hungerford Police Station and TVP HQ in Kidlington where the PPC's 13 dedicated staff are based.
He commented, "I'm remarkably good value. If I hired myself out I'd charge a lot more."
'Easy Life'
LibDem PPC for Newbury, Judith Bunting, weighed in
rhetorically, asking if it is not appropriate for Cllr Stansfeld to be
based where his
staff are, then "maybe he would like us to make his life easier by
moving the 13-strong team to Hungerford?"
Cllr Stansfeld's expenses may initially appear contrary to election pledges to 'target the Police budget effectively' and 'offer great value for money'.
Matthew Sinclair, Chairman of the Taxpayer's Alliance, said the "pop-up office appears to be part of a cynical scam to milk the system for as much cash as possible."
Local Labour blogger, matthewsdent doesn't necessarily disagree, but does hold a low opinion of such arrogance. Calling Cllr Stansfeld 'a disgrace' and 'a law unto himself'.
His witty retort however neglects the reality - the complaints recieved by the panel has initiated a formal investigation process into Cllr Stansfeld's expenses by an independent audit committee.
Oranjepan says: It would be easy to speculate whether it is simple coincidence that a new development of 90 luxury retirement homes has been opened at Kintbury's Inglewood House by Audley Homes' CEO, Nick Sanderson, the Earl of Caernarvon - yet the above-named elected representatives are hardly living like monks!
Showing posts with label expenses. Show all posts
Showing posts with label expenses. Show all posts
Saturday, 1 June 2013
Wednesday, 22 July 2009
Tories Agree Inflation-Busting Rise In Allowances
Wokingham Conservatives have pushed through a 9% rise in allowances which will see the basic councillor package increase from £6,750 to £7,360pa.
Council leader Cllr David Lee defended the rise because it was recommended by an independent panel made up of residents.
Last year councillors rejected the recommendations for a modest increase which could be sustained without creating wild fluctuations from year to year. Tories argued that the economic pressure facing the council meant it was unfair to create additional burdens at that time.
Meanwhile, opposition LibDems argued that current economic pressures made such a massive rise unjustifiable this year. Group deputy, Cllr Stephen Conway explained that this is an area of high public sensitivity, especially during a period when the council is cutting services in a drastic search for savings (some might say they are scraping the barrel...).
Wokingham Council Tax was increased by a near-maximum 4.68% this year.
Oranjepan asks:
What is the point of an independent panel if you only accept it's recommendations when you like what you hear? This was the point made by Conservatives during the fire authority allowance discussions, so why have they suddenly changed their stance?
-
Click here to find out how much councillors in Wokingham claimed.
Click here for full details of the political expenses scandal in Berkshire.
Council leader Cllr David Lee defended the rise because it was recommended by an independent panel made up of residents.
Last year councillors rejected the recommendations for a modest increase which could be sustained without creating wild fluctuations from year to year. Tories argued that the economic pressure facing the council meant it was unfair to create additional burdens at that time.
Meanwhile, opposition LibDems argued that current economic pressures made such a massive rise unjustifiable this year. Group deputy, Cllr Stephen Conway explained that this is an area of high public sensitivity, especially during a period when the council is cutting services in a drastic search for savings (some might say they are scraping the barrel...).
Wokingham Council Tax was increased by a near-maximum 4.68% this year.
Oranjepan asks:
What is the point of an independent panel if you only accept it's recommendations when you like what you hear? This was the point made by Conservatives during the fire authority allowance discussions, so why have they suddenly changed their stance?
-
Click here to find out how much councillors in Wokingham claimed.
Click here for full details of the political expenses scandal in Berkshire.
Monday, 13 July 2009
Scrutiny On the Administration: Expenses
Another political squall has broken out over the abuses of expenses - but this time it isn't politicians who are shouldering the blame, it's the bureaucrats.
Figures released show council staff at Reading Borough Council are allowed to claim travel expenses at a rate five-times higher than comparable authorities; whereas in Wokingham essential travel for work is reimbursed at 38.7p per mile, Reading pays £2.10 per mile!
The three represented political parties joined forces to wholeheartedly condemn the outrageous practice (no doubt also tempted to point out the holier-than-thou sanctimony of some critics), while Unison Branch secretary Brendan Carr stoutly attempted to defend the discrepancy by citing the "closely defined local definition of essential car use" as justification.
All of which possibly explains why LibDem parliamentary campaigner Cllr Gareth Epps choose now to describe new research highlighting just how little confidence in our public institutions there is.
And he is apparently reading from exactly the same script as reputed commentator (and Reading expat) Charlie Brooker.
Going into greater detail, the TV presenter and journalist outlines how a succession of scandals have rocked faith in our public institutions - from Parliament and the Police to television and print media to banks and the economy in general.
Meanwhile Elizabeth Thomas points out that nobody is immune from the temptation of cheating when they think they can get away with it.
Figures released show council staff at Reading Borough Council are allowed to claim travel expenses at a rate five-times higher than comparable authorities; whereas in Wokingham essential travel for work is reimbursed at 38.7p per mile, Reading pays £2.10 per mile!
The three represented political parties joined forces to wholeheartedly condemn the outrageous practice (no doubt also tempted to point out the holier-than-thou sanctimony of some critics), while Unison Branch secretary Brendan Carr stoutly attempted to defend the discrepancy by citing the "closely defined local definition of essential car use" as justification.
All of which possibly explains why LibDem parliamentary campaigner Cllr Gareth Epps choose now to describe new research highlighting just how little confidence in our public institutions there is.
And he is apparently reading from exactly the same script as reputed commentator (and Reading expat) Charlie Brooker.
Going into greater detail, the TV presenter and journalist outlines how a succession of scandals have rocked faith in our public institutions - from Parliament and the Police to television and print media to banks and the economy in general.
Meanwhile Elizabeth Thomas points out that nobody is immune from the temptation of cheating when they think they can get away with it.
Sunday, 5 July 2009
Expenses In West Berkshire
Following a recent report of the impact of the expenses scandal on the local political scene Reading List raised questions of the identity of the individual banned from making future claims for first-class rail travel.
Speaking on behalf of West Berkshire Council Sue Broughton confirmed by email that "the councillor in question was Councillor Alan Law."
Cllr Alan Law represents Basildon ward for the Conservative party.
The full list of allowances claimed by West Berkshire councillors can be found here.
Birch Copse's Cllr Joe Mooney (Con) was the highest overall claimant, claiming £2,830.60 additional expenses for the 12 period covering the financial year from April 1st 2008 to March 31st 2009.
13 of West Berkshire's 52 councillors did not claim any additional expenses.
Speaking on behalf of West Berkshire Council Sue Broughton confirmed by email that "the councillor in question was Councillor Alan Law."
Cllr Alan Law represents Basildon ward for the Conservative party.
The full list of allowances claimed by West Berkshire councillors can be found here.
Birch Copse's Cllr Joe Mooney (Con) was the highest overall claimant, claiming £2,830.60 additional expenses for the 12 period covering the financial year from April 1st 2008 to March 31st 2009.
13 of West Berkshire's 52 councillors did not claim any additional expenses.
Thursday, 2 July 2009
Conservatives Catch Fire Over Expenses
With the recent heatwave comes the threat of fires.
Fire Chiefs have warned that fire can strike anywhere and at any time, so it is important to be careful to avoid injury or damage to property. Fire safety does not stop at the front door, and whether it is barbeques or the disposal of cigarette ends simple precautions against carelessness will prevent unforeseen tragedy and regret.
Fire Brigades are there to answer your call, but they warn a fire in a forest in the country or in a town alleyway can easily and quickly spread out of control, whatever the cause.
Meanwhile the provision of Berkshire Fire and Rescue has again come under the spotlight.
RBWM council leader Cllr David Burbage has attacked the 'software sausage machine' of centralised government guidance procedures and called for changes to allow local people to set local priorities as a way to protect closure of fire stations, such as those threatened at Windsor, Sonning and Dee Road in Reading.
However, while the Conservative spokesperson opposes local taxation powers to support local decision-making his colleagues are more ambivalent about taking money from the local fire budget without putting anything back.
Francis Batt reports that anger was fueled at the annual meeting of the Fire Authority when members voted themselves a 400% increase in expenses only moments after rejecting a rethink of a reduction in service involving the night-closure of the Windsor station!
Windsor Fire Station was flabbergasted by the announcement that only three Conservative councillors on the board (Christine Bateson, Phillip Bicknell and John Lenton) abstained from the vote which increased their basic allowances from £412 per year to £1,800 per year, noting that only LibDem Kathy Newbound of the representatives from RBWM voted against the rise.
Campaigner Richard Coates called it "an absolute disgrace" that all this additional money is to be taken out of the Fire budget, explaining that
-
Update: Conservative chairman of the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority Cllr Dr Paul Bryant (Peeen, West Berks) defended the massive increase. He said it was the first rise in over ten years and explained that "it is important that local representation should not be restricted to the well off", claiming that the additional costs "will not have a detrimental effect on any of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service's operational or support activities."
LibDem Cllr Prue Bray was outraged in response. She said "We were appalled at the greed of the Tories, especially at this time of recession, when residents of Berkshire are struggling to keep their jobs and their homes," calling it 'ridiculous' that the Conservative majority on the authority was able to ignore opponents and could effectively award this pay rise to themselves.
According to Reading Post only one of the four Labour members were in attendance at the meeting. Reading's Cllr Paul Gittings voted against the rise.
Jeff Brooks (Lib Dem, Thatcham West) explained that the package will cost £77,000 extra per year, and said "The Fire Service's finances are very stretched, and they should be spending their budget on firefighters and equipment, not on greedy councillors."
Meanwhile Cllr Bryant responded by claiming the allowance freeze had been an 'oversight' before stating that "the group... had got an independent person to look at it, [so] if we started to fiddle with their recommendations, why bother to ask them."
Windsor LibDems provides the full voting list.
-
Royal Berkshire Fire Authority comprises 25 local councillors representing the six Berkshire unitary councils (3 from Bracknell Forest, 4 from Reading, 5 from RBWM, 3 from Slough, 5 from West Berks and 5 from Wokingham), and includes 16 Conservatives, 4 Labour, 4 LibDem and 1 Independent.
For more information please read the members handbook.
Oranjepan says:
A fair reward for a fair job is fair enough, but not when it comes at the expense of vital emergency services.
Fire Chiefs have warned that fire can strike anywhere and at any time, so it is important to be careful to avoid injury or damage to property. Fire safety does not stop at the front door, and whether it is barbeques or the disposal of cigarette ends simple precautions against carelessness will prevent unforeseen tragedy and regret.
Fire Brigades are there to answer your call, but they warn a fire in a forest in the country or in a town alleyway can easily and quickly spread out of control, whatever the cause.
Meanwhile the provision of Berkshire Fire and Rescue has again come under the spotlight.
RBWM council leader Cllr David Burbage has attacked the 'software sausage machine' of centralised government guidance procedures and called for changes to allow local people to set local priorities as a way to protect closure of fire stations, such as those threatened at Windsor, Sonning and Dee Road in Reading.
However, while the Conservative spokesperson opposes local taxation powers to support local decision-making his colleagues are more ambivalent about taking money from the local fire budget without putting anything back.
Francis Batt reports that anger was fueled at the annual meeting of the Fire Authority when members voted themselves a 400% increase in expenses only moments after rejecting a rethink of a reduction in service involving the night-closure of the Windsor station!
Windsor Fire Station was flabbergasted by the announcement that only three Conservative councillors on the board (Christine Bateson, Phillip Bicknell and John Lenton) abstained from the vote which increased their basic allowances from £412 per year to £1,800 per year, noting that only LibDem Kathy Newbound of the representatives from RBWM voted against the rise.
Campaigner Richard Coates called it "an absolute disgrace" that all this additional money is to be taken out of the Fire budget, explaining that
"Members have voted themselves a rise in their allowances, plus extra travel and accommodation expenses which over the course of a year will be the equivalent of three whole time firemen's salary, enough to keep Windsor station open during the night hours."Cllr Warren Swaine says this is what happens when you give tories a free reign, while Cllr David Burbage notes a recent speech made by David Cameron MP highlighting the need for transparency as a way to force elected representatives to improve their behaviour.
-
Update: Conservative chairman of the Royal Berkshire Fire Authority Cllr Dr Paul Bryant (Peeen, West Berks) defended the massive increase. He said it was the first rise in over ten years and explained that "it is important that local representation should not be restricted to the well off", claiming that the additional costs "will not have a detrimental effect on any of Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service's operational or support activities."
LibDem Cllr Prue Bray was outraged in response. She said "We were appalled at the greed of the Tories, especially at this time of recession, when residents of Berkshire are struggling to keep their jobs and their homes," calling it 'ridiculous' that the Conservative majority on the authority was able to ignore opponents and could effectively award this pay rise to themselves.
According to Reading Post only one of the four Labour members were in attendance at the meeting. Reading's Cllr Paul Gittings voted against the rise.
Jeff Brooks (Lib Dem, Thatcham West) explained that the package will cost £77,000 extra per year, and said "The Fire Service's finances are very stretched, and they should be spending their budget on firefighters and equipment, not on greedy councillors."
Meanwhile Cllr Bryant responded by claiming the allowance freeze had been an 'oversight' before stating that "the group... had got an independent person to look at it, [so] if we started to fiddle with their recommendations, why bother to ask them."
Windsor LibDems provides the full voting list.
-
Royal Berkshire Fire Authority comprises 25 local councillors representing the six Berkshire unitary councils (3 from Bracknell Forest, 4 from Reading, 5 from RBWM, 3 from Slough, 5 from West Berks and 5 from Wokingham), and includes 16 Conservatives, 4 Labour, 4 LibDem and 1 Independent.
For more information please read the members handbook.
Oranjepan says:
A fair reward for a fair job is fair enough, but not when it comes at the expense of vital emergency services.
Friday, 19 June 2009
Expenses Redaction Causes Offense
After six weeks of daily revelations made in the national press Parliament has finally published the expenses submitted by MPs.
Well, almost.
Mark Reckons pities the metaphorically 'poor' people who attempt to wade through the masses of black ink, as the struggle against such institutionalised censorship would send most people "a bit peculiar!"
The normally equanimious Paul Walter is furious that the effort to cover up the scale of our elected officials theft from us has cost an estimated £2m - yes, even with sterling falling and inflation having slashed the purchasing power of the pound in our pockets that's still a lot of money to the majority (though clearly not to most MPs, who are not only millionaires in a private capacity but are subsidised by every last single one of their ordinary constituents).
Meanwhile Wokingham MP John Redwood says "people want an institution which does more, costs less, and is more open", but expresses his frustration that there is no formalised opportunity for parliamentarians to hold Parliament to account.
All three seem united in agreement that this episode continues to tarnish the name of our democracy.
-
Update: Howards Thomas takes his cue to give unflinching praise to the press, which is not surprising considering his links to them. Well, the Post does need all the help they can get at the moment!
Well, almost.
Mark Reckons pities the metaphorically 'poor' people who attempt to wade through the masses of black ink, as the struggle against such institutionalised censorship would send most people "a bit peculiar!"
The normally equanimious Paul Walter is furious that the effort to cover up the scale of our elected officials theft from us has cost an estimated £2m - yes, even with sterling falling and inflation having slashed the purchasing power of the pound in our pockets that's still a lot of money to the majority (though clearly not to most MPs, who are not only millionaires in a private capacity but are subsidised by every last single one of their ordinary constituents).
Meanwhile Wokingham MP John Redwood says "people want an institution which does more, costs less, and is more open", but expresses his frustration that there is no formalised opportunity for parliamentarians to hold Parliament to account.
All three seem united in agreement that this episode continues to tarnish the name of our democracy.
-
Update: Howards Thomas takes his cue to give unflinching praise to the press, which is not surprising considering his links to them. Well, the Post does need all the help they can get at the moment!
Berkshire MPs Expenses Exposed
For any interested readers who wish to wade through the redacted expense claims made by elected representatives from across Berkshire, Reading List provides the figures for the past year (MPs listed alphabetically):
Adam Afriyie (Conservative), MP for Windsor [ref]
Second home - nil
London supplement - nil
Office - £17,297
Staffing - £83,261
Stationery - £534
IT provision - £1,290
Communication - nil
Travel - nil
Total - £104,652
Richard Benyon (Conservative), MP for Newbury [ref]
Second home - nil
London supplement - nil
Office - £15,501
Staffing - £75,556
Stationery - £1,189
IT provision - £1,269
Communication - £6,106
Travel - £2,472
Total - £105,728
Andrew MacKay (Conservative), MP for Bracknell [ref]
Second home - £22,575
London supplement - nil
Office - £19,303
Staffing - £75,193
Stationery - £729
IT provision - £1,060
Communication - £7,821
Travel - £7,270
Total - £136,239
Fiona MacTaggart (Labour), MP for Slough [ref]
Second home - £3,392
London supplement - nil
Office - £11,992
Staffing - £99,820
Stationery - £1,132
IT provision - £1,194
Communication - £10,031
Travel - £2,651
Total - £134,940
Theresa May (Conservative), MP for Maidenhead
Second home - £4,288
London supplement -nil
Office - £6,641
Staffing - £90,983
Stationery - £511
IT provision - £1,962
Communication - £10,123
Travel - £2,364
Total - £118,147
John Redwood (Conservative), MP for Wokingham [ref]
Second home - £22,729
London supplement - nil
Office - £10,427
Staffing - £55,616
Stationery - £457
IT provision - £1,250
Communication - £9,686
Travel - £3,911
Total - £105,917
Martin Salter (Labour), MP for Reading West [ref]
Second home - nil
London supplement - nil
Office - £20,805
Staffing - £88,865
Stationery - £1,239
IT provision - £1,113
Communication - £9,302
Travel - £7,898
Total - £132,263
Rob Wilson (Conservative), MP for Reading East [ref]
Second home - nil
London supplement - nil
Office - £16,580
Staffing - £89,718
Stationery - £745
IT provision - £1,452
Communication - £10,186
Travel - £10,585
Total - £132,218
-
Update: Professor Rob Waller remembers how he once worked for the Information Design Unit which designed the claims forms and reprints the declaration used: "I confirm that I incurred these costs wholly, exclusively and necessarily... for the purpose of performing my duties as a Member of Parliament"
Adam Afriyie (Conservative), MP for Windsor [ref]
Second home - nil
London supplement - nil
Office - £17,297
Staffing - £83,261
Stationery - £534
IT provision - £1,290
Communication - nil
Travel - nil
Total - £104,652
Richard Benyon (Conservative), MP for Newbury [ref]
Second home - nil
London supplement - nil
Office - £15,501
Staffing - £75,556
Stationery - £1,189
IT provision - £1,269
Communication - £6,106
Travel - £2,472
Total - £105,728
Andrew MacKay (Conservative), MP for Bracknell [ref]
Second home - £22,575
London supplement - nil
Office - £19,303
Staffing - £75,193
Stationery - £729
IT provision - £1,060
Communication - £7,821
Travel - £7,270
Total - £136,239
Fiona MacTaggart (Labour), MP for Slough [ref]
Second home - £3,392
London supplement - nil
Office - £11,992
Staffing - £99,820
Stationery - £1,132
IT provision - £1,194
Communication - £10,031
Travel - £2,651
Total - £134,940
Theresa May (Conservative), MP for Maidenhead
Second home - £4,288
London supplement -nil
Office - £6,641
Staffing - £90,983
Stationery - £511
IT provision - £1,962
Communication - £10,123
Travel - £2,364
Total - £118,147
John Redwood (Conservative), MP for Wokingham [ref]
Second home - £22,729
London supplement - nil
Office - £10,427
Staffing - £55,616
Stationery - £457
IT provision - £1,250
Communication - £9,686
Travel - £3,911
Total - £105,917
Martin Salter (Labour), MP for Reading West [ref]
Second home - nil
London supplement - nil
Office - £20,805
Staffing - £88,865
Stationery - £1,239
IT provision - £1,113
Communication - £9,302
Travel - £7,898
Total - £132,263
Rob Wilson (Conservative), MP for Reading East [ref]
Second home - nil
London supplement - nil
Office - £16,580
Staffing - £89,718
Stationery - £745
IT provision - £1,452
Communication - £10,186
Travel - £10,585
Total - £132,218
-
Update: Professor Rob Waller remembers how he once worked for the Information Design Unit which designed the claims forms and reprints the declaration used: "I confirm that I incurred these costs wholly, exclusively and necessarily... for the purpose of performing my duties as a Member of Parliament"
Wednesday, 17 June 2009
'Cull-A-Councillor'
Independent Battle Ward councillor Tony Jones has attempted to profit from the public outcry against official waste as he made an unashamedly populist call to cut the number of councillors on Reading Borough Council.
He says one-third of current representatives could be culled "without in any way harming the efficiency of the council or injuring the democratic processes," arguing that the system of local government which has been around for half his lifetime ought to be updated because communication technology has improved so much in that time that the less active councillors no longer give value for money and should be hurried off into retirement.
Cllr Jones also calls for the frequency of elections to be reduced and calculates this would produce a financial saving of as much as £150,000. Such a figure reflects approximately 0.1% of the total current annual council budget.
In her report Linda Fort makes an insightful final aside, raising the question of who the final beneficiaries of any such move would be and what ulterior motives might be masked.
It seems clear that the staunch trades unionist has no residual solidarity with his former Labour party colleagues, although it could equally be likely to discourage members of the public from voluntarily getting involved with the political process - something which opponents are trying to prevent.
In the meantime Reading's top bureaucrat, RBC Chief Executive Michael Coughlin has been out and about fulfilling ceremonial duties and promoting democratic initiatives, perhaps offering an insight into what Cllr Jones' vision involves.
-
Update: Cllr Ricky Duveen doesn't like the idea. He says "it is not a way to enhance democracy in Reading nor a way to increase participation."
Oranjepan asks:
which councillor(s) do you think should be got rid of?
=
Follow the link for full coverage of the expenses scandal and the political debate about democratic renewal.
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He says one-third of current representatives could be culled "without in any way harming the efficiency of the council or injuring the democratic processes," arguing that the system of local government which has been around for half his lifetime ought to be updated because communication technology has improved so much in that time that the less active councillors no longer give value for money and should be hurried off into retirement.
Cllr Jones also calls for the frequency of elections to be reduced and calculates this would produce a financial saving of as much as £150,000. Such a figure reflects approximately 0.1% of the total current annual council budget.
In her report Linda Fort makes an insightful final aside, raising the question of who the final beneficiaries of any such move would be and what ulterior motives might be masked.
It seems clear that the staunch trades unionist has no residual solidarity with his former Labour party colleagues, although it could equally be likely to discourage members of the public from voluntarily getting involved with the political process - something which opponents are trying to prevent.
In the meantime Reading's top bureaucrat, RBC Chief Executive Michael Coughlin has been out and about fulfilling ceremonial duties and promoting democratic initiatives, perhaps offering an insight into what Cllr Jones' vision involves.
-
Update: Cllr Ricky Duveen doesn't like the idea. He says "it is not a way to enhance democracy in Reading nor a way to increase participation."
Oranjepan asks:
which councillor(s) do you think should be got rid of?
=
Follow the link for full coverage of the expenses scandal and the political debate about democratic renewal.
Friday, 5 June 2009
Expenses Scandal Hits Berkshire Councillors
The reverberations of the ongoing expenses scandal continue to spread out and LibDem Wokingham PPC Prue Bray is proved right that it would inevitably suck in councillors from Berkshire.
The 52 councillors in West Berkshire were in receipt of £1/2m worth of additional travel expenses - on top of their standard allowances.
According to Liam Sloan although 14 councillors made no claims the stench of corruption surrounds Conservative Joe Mooney from Birch Copse, who racked up the highest expenses with claims of £2,830.60, while a note on the file showed a councillor had been officially warned off first-class rail travel after submitting a claim for expenses incurred attending a planning conference in Scotland during September.
In other news Conservative former leader of the council, Kintbury councillor David Rowles has been forced to apologise for a breach of the code of conduct when he did not declare an interest in a planning application.
Meanwhile Cllr Warren Swaine and RBWM leader David Burbage wash their hands of improper behaviour with a declaration of their innocence.
-
Update: Elsewhere, Bracknell LibDem PPC Ray Earwicker points out that allowances provided by Bracknell Forest Borough Council "have always been among the highest" despite being among the smallest councils in the country. He says Conservative council leader Cllr Paul Bettison is given £38,000 in allowances plus £5,000 in subsistence expenses.
Oranjepan says:
Isn't it a strange coincidence that Berkshire's blogging representatives are more accountable - and those that don't, aren't!
The 52 councillors in West Berkshire were in receipt of £1/2m worth of additional travel expenses - on top of their standard allowances.
According to Liam Sloan although 14 councillors made no claims the stench of corruption surrounds Conservative Joe Mooney from Birch Copse, who racked up the highest expenses with claims of £2,830.60, while a note on the file showed a councillor had been officially warned off first-class rail travel after submitting a claim for expenses incurred attending a planning conference in Scotland during September.
In other news Conservative former leader of the council, Kintbury councillor David Rowles has been forced to apologise for a breach of the code of conduct when he did not declare an interest in a planning application.
Meanwhile Cllr Warren Swaine and RBWM leader David Burbage wash their hands of improper behaviour with a declaration of their innocence.
-
Update: Elsewhere, Bracknell LibDem PPC Ray Earwicker points out that allowances provided by Bracknell Forest Borough Council "have always been among the highest" despite being among the smallest councils in the country. He says Conservative council leader Cllr Paul Bettison is given £38,000 in allowances plus £5,000 in subsistence expenses.
Oranjepan says:
Isn't it a strange coincidence that Berkshire's blogging representatives are more accountable - and those that don't, aren't!
Thursday, 4 June 2009
It's Always Stay, Stay, Stay
As the selection process nears it's climax to decide who will replace veteran MP Martin Salter as Labour's next candidate in Reading West, calls are mounting for him to reconsider.
Local commentators suggest a hint of desperation is in the air as none of the list of possible alternatives appear likely to be able mount a challenge to hold the seat Mr Salter won last time round with a 4,500 majority - as readers can see for yourselves, frontrunners were already resorting to self-defence in the press rather than promoting any principles they stand for before the shortlist was announced.
Former Labour colleague, Jane Griffiths, finds such a development highly dubious and points out the likelihood that it is a manufactured ruse to get Mr Salter reinstated - a high probablilty considering the close links between the prominent local politician and the media outlet it appeared in.
LibDem opponents are even more scathing. Cllr Warren Swaine suggests such a ploy is a final attempt to save the Labour party's skin and avoid complete meltdown. Quoting a long-time Salter ally who holds a key position in the local party, he argues "It could be the first time a rat has joined a sinking ship!"
Update: Jane takes aim again, explaining that it would indeed be an exceptional circumstance for Mr Salter to be added to the ballot at this late stage. Cllr Swaine suggests Salter is merely keeping his career options open. Mr Salter himself says he is looking forward to offering the benefit of his experience to charity.
Wendy suggests these problems may all just be a simple mix-up of language! Okay, then.
Oranjepan says:
It is interesting to note the unsigned REP article no longer describes Mr Salter as having an unblemished expenses record - it has softened it's support of his 'angelic' behaviour and now only states he claimed no extravagant expenses during the past 4 years - which clearly indicates evidence exists that Mr Salter did make claims against the spirit of the rules from 1997 onwards.
Local commentators suggest a hint of desperation is in the air as none of the list of possible alternatives appear likely to be able mount a challenge to hold the seat Mr Salter won last time round with a 4,500 majority - as readers can see for yourselves, frontrunners were already resorting to self-defence in the press rather than promoting any principles they stand for before the shortlist was announced.Former Labour colleague, Jane Griffiths, finds such a development highly dubious and points out the likelihood that it is a manufactured ruse to get Mr Salter reinstated - a high probablilty considering the close links between the prominent local politician and the media outlet it appeared in.
LibDem opponents are even more scathing. Cllr Warren Swaine suggests such a ploy is a final attempt to save the Labour party's skin and avoid complete meltdown. Quoting a long-time Salter ally who holds a key position in the local party, he argues "It could be the first time a rat has joined a sinking ship!"
Update: Jane takes aim again, explaining that it would indeed be an exceptional circumstance for Mr Salter to be added to the ballot at this late stage. Cllr Swaine suggests Salter is merely keeping his career options open. Mr Salter himself says he is looking forward to offering the benefit of his experience to charity.
Wendy suggests these problems may all just be a simple mix-up of language! Okay, then.
Oranjepan says:
It is interesting to note the unsigned REP article no longer describes Mr Salter as having an unblemished expenses record - it has softened it's support of his 'angelic' behaviour and now only states he claimed no extravagant expenses during the past 4 years - which clearly indicates evidence exists that Mr Salter did make claims against the spirit of the rules from 1997 onwards.
Thursday, 28 May 2009
Round-Up: An Agenda For Reform
With the furore over the current MPs expenses scandal continuing to bite into the public consciousness politicians on all sides have been furiously scrambling to develop proposals which they think will win back any trust lost in what they each stand for.
Labour says transparency is key and that regulation is the way to ensure it.
Local candidate Anneliese Dodds and outgoing MP Martin Salter have joined forces to propose a simple once-and-for-all seven point plan which they hope will restore lost faith in the system of politics presided over by their party.
Conservatives agree on the principle that changes are needed, but disagree with everybody else and themselves over what the precise nature of the changes should be.
National leader David Cameron has issued a revolutionary call for 'people power', a move criticised for potentially bypassing parliament and which could risk undermining any attempts to hold the executive to account in an effective and direct manner.
Kentwood councillor Emma Warman is more cautious about offering her view of the precise nature of any reforms, and says she will be following the headlines to see which way she will swing. However, RBWM Council Leader David Burbage is scathing about electoral reform and can't wait until the next general election brings in a new set of faces.
LibDems argue that accountability is the fundamental issue and a completely new reforming agenda is needed.
Leader Nick Clegg has been praised for laying out a thorough-going and 'visionary' raft of proposals which include 'root and branch' reforms of everything from expenses to party funding and election procedures - he says it's not enough to change the faces of the politicians, because if the system stays the same the result will be the same.
Cllr Glenn Goodall weighs in with a summary of the main areas which need addressing, on which there is a general cross-party consensus.
Mark Thompson is pleased that electoral and constitutional reform is now being taken more seriously considered as it is one of the main reasons he joined the party, while Tilehurst LibDem councillor Ricky Duveen is surprised at the sudden rise in popularity of an issue which he has been campaigning on for many years and Cllr Swaine provides a reminder of some interventions he's actively supported.
Green Party candidates Rob White and Adrian Hollister find themselves unable to differentiate between individual representatives as they make a sweeping dismissal of all other parties.
They are clearly less concerned with the detail of any proposals than trying to ensure their own are elected, because it is surely obvious that every single last Green party member is by definition immune from any form of error of judgment or culpability in corrupt practices!
Finally Howard Thomas of Reading's own Common Sense Party offers his less-than-extensive 'common sense solution' to close the loopholes and resolve all the problems problems created when money and politics mix, which involves his view of the most significant of the measures proposed by the other parties.
Nevertheless Howard is staightforward in debunking the sudden urgency of recent converts to the case for reform.
Oranjepan says:
All parties are fighting over this issue, so they obviously feel their response will be decisive in deciding the turnout of future elections.
Labour says transparency is key and that regulation is the way to ensure it.
Local candidate Anneliese Dodds and outgoing MP Martin Salter have joined forces to propose a simple once-and-for-all seven point plan which they hope will restore lost faith in the system of politics presided over by their party.
Conservatives agree on the principle that changes are needed, but disagree with everybody else and themselves over what the precise nature of the changes should be.
National leader David Cameron has issued a revolutionary call for 'people power', a move criticised for potentially bypassing parliament and which could risk undermining any attempts to hold the executive to account in an effective and direct manner.
Kentwood councillor Emma Warman is more cautious about offering her view of the precise nature of any reforms, and says she will be following the headlines to see which way she will swing. However, RBWM Council Leader David Burbage is scathing about electoral reform and can't wait until the next general election brings in a new set of faces.
LibDems argue that accountability is the fundamental issue and a completely new reforming agenda is needed.
Leader Nick Clegg has been praised for laying out a thorough-going and 'visionary' raft of proposals which include 'root and branch' reforms of everything from expenses to party funding and election procedures - he says it's not enough to change the faces of the politicians, because if the system stays the same the result will be the same.
Cllr Glenn Goodall weighs in with a summary of the main areas which need addressing, on which there is a general cross-party consensus.
Mark Thompson is pleased that electoral and constitutional reform is now being taken more seriously considered as it is one of the main reasons he joined the party, while Tilehurst LibDem councillor Ricky Duveen is surprised at the sudden rise in popularity of an issue which he has been campaigning on for many years and Cllr Swaine provides a reminder of some interventions he's actively supported.
Green Party candidates Rob White and Adrian Hollister find themselves unable to differentiate between individual representatives as they make a sweeping dismissal of all other parties.
They are clearly less concerned with the detail of any proposals than trying to ensure their own are elected, because it is surely obvious that every single last Green party member is by definition immune from any form of error of judgment or culpability in corrupt practices!
Finally Howard Thomas of Reading's own Common Sense Party offers his less-than-extensive 'common sense solution' to close the loopholes and resolve all the problems problems created when money and politics mix, which involves his view of the most significant of the measures proposed by the other parties.
Nevertheless Howard is staightforward in debunking the sudden urgency of recent converts to the case for reform.
Oranjepan says:
All parties are fighting over this issue, so they obviously feel their response will be decisive in deciding the turnout of future elections.
Monday, 25 May 2009
Are You Listening, Mr Wilson?
Out of the murk of the expenses scandals the question of political dialogue has raised it's head again.
Cllr Swaine draws our attention to the use of MPs 'communications allowance' - a sum of over £10,000 per year - and argues that there is a wide gulf between fair communication and propaganda.
Adrian Windisch recently cited a Hansard Society report into the extent MPs use technology to communicate with constituents and was shocked to discover that in some cases they respond to as few as two emails per week!
The Hansard investigation concluded that MPs are 'transmitting but not receiving', fearful of the often confrontational nature of the blogosphere and the potential to get sucked into a losing debate online which provides a permanent account of their views.
Report author Andy Williamson, Director of the eDemocracy programme at the Hansard Society said, "They use the internet as a tool for campaigning and for organising their supporters, rather than opening up two-way communication with constituents."
Which will probably explain Conservative Reading East MP Rob Wilson's decision to ensure readership of his blog is by invitation only.
Following Conservative leader David Cameron's strong opposition to use of the communications allowance Mr Wilson has since decided that his online presence does not amount to open communication with constituents and it is unfair to continue to claim the sum for his activities.
Whether Mr Wilson intends to repay sums he has already claimed is not known.
Oranjepan asks:
If they don't engage in dialogue how can we be reassured that our representatives aren't just pretending to listen?
Cllr Swaine draws our attention to the use of MPs 'communications allowance' - a sum of over £10,000 per year - and argues that there is a wide gulf between fair communication and propaganda.
Adrian Windisch recently cited a Hansard Society report into the extent MPs use technology to communicate with constituents and was shocked to discover that in some cases they respond to as few as two emails per week!
The Hansard investigation concluded that MPs are 'transmitting but not receiving', fearful of the often confrontational nature of the blogosphere and the potential to get sucked into a losing debate online which provides a permanent account of their views.
Report author Andy Williamson, Director of the eDemocracy programme at the Hansard Society said, "They use the internet as a tool for campaigning and for organising their supporters, rather than opening up two-way communication with constituents."
Which will probably explain Conservative Reading East MP Rob Wilson's decision to ensure readership of his blog is by invitation only.
Following Conservative leader David Cameron's strong opposition to use of the communications allowance Mr Wilson has since decided that his online presence does not amount to open communication with constituents and it is unfair to continue to claim the sum for his activities.
Whether Mr Wilson intends to repay sums he has already claimed is not known.
Oranjepan asks:
If they don't engage in dialogue how can we be reassured that our representatives aren't just pretending to listen?
Saturday, 23 May 2009
Bracknell MP Andrew Mackay To Stand Down
Controversial Conservative Bracknell MP Andrew Mackay has reversed his overnight position of intending to seek relection at the next General Election and has announced he will stand down, thereby denying members of his party or the public a chance to vote him out of office.
The stalwart Conservative had previously offered apologies for his behaviour, but said he didn't want the public to be 'distracted' from the real issues facing the country.
Bracknell News reports that this change of heart comes after a conversation with Conservative leader David Cameron, insisting that Friday night's public meeting had nothing to do with his decision. This is despite Mr Cameron earlier stating that reselection or reelection should be a matter for local party members and voters.
Mark Thompson is dismisses Mr MacKay's statement as ignoring the fact of the weight of opinion against him, saying it is obvious that the meeting must have at least been a contributing factor - either Mr MacKay is being disingenuous or is simply blind.
Bracknell Blog collects an excellent selection of reports: Radio Bracknell editor John Hicks says Mr MacKay's time is up; The Independent reports that residents have "no desire to represented by a theif"; while membership blog ConservativeHome has a chorus of disapproval against Mr MacKay.
Paul Walter draws our attention to a Have I got News For You in which Mr MacKays wife and Conservative Bromsgrove MP, Julie Kirkbride (who is herself facing renewed calls to stand down) in which the matter of double-claiming expenses was brought to her attention 3 years ago.
Caversham Conservative councillor, Richard Willis gives the matter perfunctory attention in a seeming attempt to sweep the matter under the carpet, while the common voice of local Conservatives is expressed by Wat Tyler, who says similar attention should be focused on all individual members who have behaved in such a disreputable manner.
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Update: Howard Thomas has his say, suggesting Mr MacKay should be prosecuted for the fraud he has perpetrated.
The stalwart Conservative had previously offered apologies for his behaviour, but said he didn't want the public to be 'distracted' from the real issues facing the country.
Bracknell News reports that this change of heart comes after a conversation with Conservative leader David Cameron, insisting that Friday night's public meeting had nothing to do with his decision. This is despite Mr Cameron earlier stating that reselection or reelection should be a matter for local party members and voters.
Mark Thompson is dismisses Mr MacKay's statement as ignoring the fact of the weight of opinion against him, saying it is obvious that the meeting must have at least been a contributing factor - either Mr MacKay is being disingenuous or is simply blind.
Bracknell Blog collects an excellent selection of reports: Radio Bracknell editor John Hicks says Mr MacKay's time is up; The Independent reports that residents have "no desire to represented by a theif"; while membership blog ConservativeHome has a chorus of disapproval against Mr MacKay.
Paul Walter draws our attention to a Have I got News For You in which Mr MacKays wife and Conservative Bromsgrove MP, Julie Kirkbride (who is herself facing renewed calls to stand down) in which the matter of double-claiming expenses was brought to her attention 3 years ago.
Caversham Conservative councillor, Richard Willis gives the matter perfunctory attention in a seeming attempt to sweep the matter under the carpet, while the common voice of local Conservatives is expressed by Wat Tyler, who says similar attention should be focused on all individual members who have behaved in such a disreputable manner.
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Update: Howard Thomas has his say, suggesting Mr MacKay should be prosecuted for the fraud he has perpetrated.
Andrew MacKay Fighting For His Political Life
Bracknell Conservative MP, Andrew MacKay is fighting to preserve his 26-year tenure after an angry crowd packed the Kerith Centre to capacity, in what Mr MacKay described as "a very lively meeting."
Here he is answering questions.
Things got even more confrontational afterwards as Mr MacKay faced the cameras under the eye of the BBC's Peter Henley. A member of the public accused him of misrepresenting the mood of the meeting to the press and others said they were no longer prepared to vote for his party because of his behaviour.
Mr MacKay declared his intention to stand for reelection as he said he was prepared to throw himself at the mercy of the "very fair-minded" people of Bracknell.
Meanwhile calls for Mr MacKay to resign have been growing over his conduct.
David Young of the Green Party says the overwhelming impression he and his colleagues have recieved on the doorstep is that most people think he should resign. He also insinuates that the limited capacity and ticketing restrictions on the Kerith Hall event suggext an attempt to ameliorate negative reaction .
Mark Thompson reports back from the meeting, giving a detailed account of the mood of the event and lists the questions Mr MacKay faced.
He concludes that the result of the meeting is that Mr MacKay's position is now untenable.
Radio Bracknell is in accord, judging Mr MacKay's performance 'unsatisfactory'.
They quote LibDem PPC Ray Earwicker, who has hopes of snatching the seat at the General Election, saying Mr MacKay "made a serious error of judgement in consistently claiming for a second-home allowance. While he may have acted within the rules, he most certainly had not acted within the spirit of the rules."
Conservative leader David Cameron has also indicated his preference for Mr MacKay to go, but said it was not his decision.
Talking to Sky News Victoria Gatenby.
Outside the meeting.
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Update: Howard Thomas also says Mr MacKay's position is untenable, and that he expects him to be charged with fraud.
Andrew MacKay has announced he will not stand again.
Here he is answering questions.
Things got even more confrontational afterwards as Mr MacKay faced the cameras under the eye of the BBC's Peter Henley. A member of the public accused him of misrepresenting the mood of the meeting to the press and others said they were no longer prepared to vote for his party because of his behaviour.
Mr MacKay declared his intention to stand for reelection as he said he was prepared to throw himself at the mercy of the "very fair-minded" people of Bracknell.
Meanwhile calls for Mr MacKay to resign have been growing over his conduct.
David Young of the Green Party says the overwhelming impression he and his colleagues have recieved on the doorstep is that most people think he should resign. He also insinuates that the limited capacity and ticketing restrictions on the Kerith Hall event suggext an attempt to ameliorate negative reaction .
Mark Thompson reports back from the meeting, giving a detailed account of the mood of the event and lists the questions Mr MacKay faced.
He concludes that the result of the meeting is that Mr MacKay's position is now untenable.
Radio Bracknell is in accord, judging Mr MacKay's performance 'unsatisfactory'.
They quote LibDem PPC Ray Earwicker, who has hopes of snatching the seat at the General Election, saying Mr MacKay "made a serious error of judgement in consistently claiming for a second-home allowance. While he may have acted within the rules, he most certainly had not acted within the spirit of the rules."
Conservative leader David Cameron has also indicated his preference for Mr MacKay to go, but said it was not his decision.
Talking to Sky News Victoria Gatenby.
Outside the meeting.
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Update: Howard Thomas also says Mr MacKay's position is untenable, and that he expects him to be charged with fraud.
Andrew MacKay has announced he will not stand again.
Tuesday, 19 May 2009
Filling Martin's Boots
It was much anticipated, but with the Speaker of the House Of Commons forced from office for the first time since 1695 after failing to reassure the commoners that he could be trusted with much-needed reforms to house expenses procedures, eyes have now turned to potential replacements for Mr Martin with questions being asked about who is prepared 'fill his boots' (and, needless to say, stockings and garters too).
Members from all sides have been mooted. Notable candidates include North-west Hampshire's George Young and current deputy Speaker Sir Alan Haselhurst from the Conservative benches, as well as former deputy leader of the LibDems Sir Alan Beith.
It is not expected that convention will be defied and a Labour MP will be dragged to the chair for the third time in succession, so Frank Field or another firebrand government backbencher should be discounted. But as The Daily Pundit says, with rumours suggesting local Reading West MP Martin Salter as a dark horse, despite having already announced he will stand down and an ongoing selection process for the Labour candidacy in the seat, "stranger things have happened".
Tradition dictates that the speaker should not actively campaign for the job of presiding over the democratic house, so it will be smoke and mirrors all the way.
It should also be noted that the Speaker's seat is uncontested during General Elections.
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Update: Apparently Martin Salter is supporting Conservative MP John Bercow to be the new Speaker.
Members from all sides have been mooted. Notable candidates include North-west Hampshire's George Young and current deputy Speaker Sir Alan Haselhurst from the Conservative benches, as well as former deputy leader of the LibDems Sir Alan Beith.
It is not expected that convention will be defied and a Labour MP will be dragged to the chair for the third time in succession, so Frank Field or another firebrand government backbencher should be discounted. But as The Daily Pundit says, with rumours suggesting local Reading West MP Martin Salter as a dark horse, despite having already announced he will stand down and an ongoing selection process for the Labour candidacy in the seat, "stranger things have happened".
Tradition dictates that the speaker should not actively campaign for the job of presiding over the democratic house, so it will be smoke and mirrors all the way.
It should also be noted that the Speaker's seat is uncontested during General Elections.
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Update: Apparently Martin Salter is supporting Conservative MP John Bercow to be the new Speaker.
It's The Vote That Counts
Public Whip provides the information on MPs voting records. Here it shows how they decided on last summer's failed reform of MPs expenses.
Berkshire's MPs voted as follows (listed alphabetically):
In the aye lobby (opposing the reforms) -
Andrew MacKay (Con), Bracknell
In the no lobby (supporting the reforms) -
Fiona MacTaggart (Lab), Slough
Theresa May (Con), Maidenhead
Absent -
Adam Afriyie (Con), Windsor
Richard Benyon (Con), Newbury
John Redwood (Con), Wokingham
Martin Salter (Lab), Reading West
Rob Wilson (Con), Reading East
Oranjepan asks:
Should it be assumed that those MPs who absented themselves from the vote were happy for the system to continue as it was, or that they thought it was of too little public concern to spend their time voting?
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Update: The votes for all parties across the country were as follows:
Berkshire's MPs voted as follows (listed alphabetically):
In the aye lobby (opposing the reforms) -
Andrew MacKay (Con), Bracknell
In the no lobby (supporting the reforms) -
Fiona MacTaggart (Lab), Slough
Theresa May (Con), Maidenhead
Absent -
Adam Afriyie (Con), Windsor
Richard Benyon (Con), Newbury
John Redwood (Con), Wokingham
Martin Salter (Lab), Reading West
Rob Wilson (Con), Reading East
Oranjepan asks:
Should it be assumed that those MPs who absented themselves from the vote were happy for the system to continue as it was, or that they thought it was of too little public concern to spend their time voting?
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Update: The votes for all parties across the country were as follows:
| Party | Majority (Aye) | Minority (No) | Both | Turnout |
| Con | 21 | 54 (+1 tell) | 0 | 39.6% |
| Ind | 2 | 0 | 0 | 40.0% |
| Lab | 146 (+2 tell) | 50 | 2 | 57.1% |
| LDem | 0 | 35 (+1 tell) | 0 | 57.1% |
| SNP | 0 | 2 | 0 | 33.3% |
| UKIP | 0 | 0 | 1 | 100.0% |
| Total: | 169 | 141 | 0 | 51.4% |
Monday, 18 May 2009
Q&A With Andrew MacKay
Bracknell Conservative MP Andrew MacKay has announced the details of the public meeting he promised constituents in the aftermath of his exposure and subsequent resignation for fraudulently claiming hundreds of thousands of pounds from the taxpayer in Additional Costs Allowances (ACA).
Mark Reckons will be attending the cross-examination of his representative, which will be held next Friday 22nd May at 7:00pm at the Kerith Centre in Bracknell.
Due to the limited availability and expected high turnout it will be a ticket-only affair and attendees will need to call 01344 868286 or e-mail bracknellca@tory.org to book your place.
Mark also reports the BBC's Peter Henley, who twittered that early discussions had not fixed the location of the event due to potential capacity problems.
Oranjepan says:
If you cannot attend but have a question you'd like to ask Mr MacKay regarding his expenses, please use the comments. We will endeavour to ensure they are put to him at the meeting.
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Update: Mark asks the question at Bracknell Blogs.
Radio Bracknell advertises the meeting.
Two-thirds of respondents on his own party membership blog say Mr MacKay should stand down, while it is reported that 80% of local residents say he has lost their trust in a local survey.
Meanwhile loyalists have rallied round and found one local tory councillor prepared to offer him continued support.
Meanwhile Chairman of Bracknell Forest Conservative Association, Roger Black has commented "Andrew has been a little naughty in his attention to the rules but has been a very good MP for 26 years and it would be sad to lose him."
Mark Reckons will be attending the cross-examination of his representative, which will be held next Friday 22nd May at 7:00pm at the Kerith Centre in Bracknell.
Due to the limited availability and expected high turnout it will be a ticket-only affair and attendees will need to call 01344 868286 or e-mail bracknellca@tory.org to book your place.
Mark also reports the BBC's Peter Henley, who twittered that early discussions had not fixed the location of the event due to potential capacity problems.
Oranjepan says:
If you cannot attend but have a question you'd like to ask Mr MacKay regarding his expenses, please use the comments. We will endeavour to ensure they are put to him at the meeting.
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Update: Mark asks the question at Bracknell Blogs.
Radio Bracknell advertises the meeting.
Two-thirds of respondents on his own party membership blog say Mr MacKay should stand down, while it is reported that 80% of local residents say he has lost their trust in a local survey.
Meanwhile loyalists have rallied round and found one local tory councillor prepared to offer him continued support.
Meanwhile Chairman of Bracknell Forest Conservative Association, Roger Black has commented "Andrew has been a little naughty in his attention to the rules but has been a very good MP for 26 years and it would be sad to lose him."
Sunday, 17 May 2009
Speaking Up Against The Speaker
LibDem parliamentary Candidate for Reading East, Cllr Gareth Epps is one of 56 PPCs to sign an open letter expressing disappointment with the Speaker of the House of Commons, Michael Martin MP, and calling on him to consider his position.
Cllr Epps is backing up LibDem leader Nick Clegg's extraordinary and unprecedented call for the resignation of the Speaker of the House as a first step to regain trust in the political system of the country damaged by the expenses scandal.
Mr Martin is due to make a statement which he hopes will quell concerns about the scandal by setting out his proposed course of action, although it it not known whether he will address a motion of no confidence in the Speaker due to be tabled by Conservative Douglas Carswell (a first in over 300 years), as it is within the Speaker's remit to ignore such a motion if it is unsupported by a wide enough spread of members.
The Speaker is in charge of the Fees Office which oversees parliamentary expenses, as well as being responsible for the smooth running of the chamber in his role as presiding officer or chair of the House of Commons. He is expected to remain politically impartial at all times.
Oranjepan asks:
Who will return order to this troubled house?
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Update: Both local MPs have said Mr Martin's removal from the speaker's chair was necessary. Martin Salter regretted the move and said he was "not responsible" for the inexcusable claims made by MPs on both sides of the house, but Rob Wilson pointed out that Mr Martin had previously been found guilty of dodgy claims of his own.
Cllr Epps is backing up LibDem leader Nick Clegg's extraordinary and unprecedented call for the resignation of the Speaker of the House as a first step to regain trust in the political system of the country damaged by the expenses scandal.
Mr Martin is due to make a statement which he hopes will quell concerns about the scandal by setting out his proposed course of action, although it it not known whether he will address a motion of no confidence in the Speaker due to be tabled by Conservative Douglas Carswell (a first in over 300 years), as it is within the Speaker's remit to ignore such a motion if it is unsupported by a wide enough spread of members.
The Speaker is in charge of the Fees Office which oversees parliamentary expenses, as well as being responsible for the smooth running of the chamber in his role as presiding officer or chair of the House of Commons. He is expected to remain politically impartial at all times.
Oranjepan asks:
Who will return order to this troubled house?
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Update: Both local MPs have said Mr Martin's removal from the speaker's chair was necessary. Martin Salter regretted the move and said he was "not responsible" for the inexcusable claims made by MPs on both sides of the house, but Rob Wilson pointed out that Mr Martin had previously been found guilty of dodgy claims of his own.
Thursday, 14 May 2009
Bracknell Tory MP Resigns After Exposure Of Expense Abuses
With the continuing drip-drip of information being released to the public by the Daily Telegraph ahead of the full publication by parliamentary authorities, Conservative MP for Bracknell, Andrew MacKay has become the first victim of the expenses scandal.
Mr MacKay resigned from his role as parliamentary adviser to party leader David Cameron after it was revealed he claimed over £22,000 last year for his second home allowance while his wife and Conservative MP for Bromsgrove, Julie Kirkbride, claimed similar amounts for another property also designated as a second home - while they both continued living together!
Mr MacKay apologised profusely after being found out only one day after telling the Bracknell Standard he believed there was nothing 'unreasonable' in his claims, saying it was an "error of judgement".
It emerges that Mr MacKay and his wife have both been claiming the full amounts of their second home allowance for "eight or nine years".
Mr MacKay subsequently told the BBC that he would answer to his constituents for his behaviour, although Mr Cameron has threatened to expel members who didn't repay excessive claims and he may be deselected in the meantime anyway.
Last year he opposed the Conservative whip to reject reform of the expenses system.
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To view the interview in which Mr MacKay attempts to provide an explanation, click here.
Conservative party leader David Cameron says in an interview that it was the 'right' decision for Mr MacKay to resign as his aide.
Andrew Neil interviews a contrite Andrew MacKay on the Daily Politics in which he accepts he may repay as much as £1/4m and says "makes him look rather foolish".
Click here for full coverage of details surrounding Mr MacKay's resignation.
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Update: LibDem PPC for Bracknell, Ray Earwicker, has commented that it is "no wonder Andrew Mackay voted to keep his second-home allowance last year," and estimates Mr MacKay has claimed £285,000 towards the cost of his £2m home in London.
He also calls for a full explanation "for the way in which he has exploited the current arrangements".
Paul Walter does his sums and works out how much Mr MacKay has ripped the taxpayer off for. Though there's no charge for this accountancy service.
Mark Reckons is "absolutely disgusted" by the behaviour of his representative. He calls for his MP to seek a new mandate from voters by forcing a by-election which will enable residents to give their verdict.
Mark previously wrote to Mr MacKay and received a reply regarding his opinion why he opposed reform of the expense system.
He also reports BBC South's Peter Henley's comment that the Madejski Stadium may be the only venue with sufficient capacity to satisfy public demand!
Bracknell Blogs asks 'how could he not know what he was doing was wrong?' and also calls for a by-election to be held.
Radio Bracknell publishes a statement by Mr MacKay advertising the public meeting to be held next Friday, 22nd May. Time and location as yet unknown.
David Cameron: "Clearly it is very embarassing; a very bad case."
Andrew MacKay mobbed by journalists.
Mr MacKay resigned from his role as parliamentary adviser to party leader David Cameron after it was revealed he claimed over £22,000 last year for his second home allowance while his wife and Conservative MP for Bromsgrove, Julie Kirkbride, claimed similar amounts for another property also designated as a second home - while they both continued living together!Mr MacKay apologised profusely after being found out only one day after telling the Bracknell Standard he believed there was nothing 'unreasonable' in his claims, saying it was an "error of judgement".
It emerges that Mr MacKay and his wife have both been claiming the full amounts of their second home allowance for "eight or nine years".
Mr MacKay subsequently told the BBC that he would answer to his constituents for his behaviour, although Mr Cameron has threatened to expel members who didn't repay excessive claims and he may be deselected in the meantime anyway.
Last year he opposed the Conservative whip to reject reform of the expenses system.
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To view the interview in which Mr MacKay attempts to provide an explanation, click here.
Conservative party leader David Cameron says in an interview that it was the 'right' decision for Mr MacKay to resign as his aide.
Andrew Neil interviews a contrite Andrew MacKay on the Daily Politics in which he accepts he may repay as much as £1/4m and says "makes him look rather foolish".
Click here for full coverage of details surrounding Mr MacKay's resignation.
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Update: LibDem PPC for Bracknell, Ray Earwicker, has commented that it is "no wonder Andrew Mackay voted to keep his second-home allowance last year," and estimates Mr MacKay has claimed £285,000 towards the cost of his £2m home in London.
He also calls for a full explanation "for the way in which he has exploited the current arrangements".
Paul Walter does his sums and works out how much Mr MacKay has ripped the taxpayer off for. Though there's no charge for this accountancy service.
Mark Reckons is "absolutely disgusted" by the behaviour of his representative. He calls for his MP to seek a new mandate from voters by forcing a by-election which will enable residents to give their verdict.
Mark previously wrote to Mr MacKay and received a reply regarding his opinion why he opposed reform of the expense system.
He also reports BBC South's Peter Henley's comment that the Madejski Stadium may be the only venue with sufficient capacity to satisfy public demand!
Bracknell Blogs asks 'how could he not know what he was doing was wrong?' and also calls for a by-election to be held.
Radio Bracknell publishes a statement by Mr MacKay advertising the public meeting to be held next Friday, 22nd May. Time and location as yet unknown.
David Cameron: "Clearly it is very embarassing; a very bad case."
Andrew MacKay mobbed by journalists.
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