High Peak Liberal Democrats

Local MPs claim thousands in expenses to heat their second homes

MPs in Lincolnshire claimed thousands of pounds in expenses to heat their second homes in the last financial year, according to a national newspaper.

And although the politicians have not broken any House of Commons rules, they have been criticised for using the public money while taxpayers across the UK face rising energy bills.​

Austin Mitchell, Labour MP for Grimsby, reportedly claimed 1,477.63 for gas and electricity, while Caistor and Market Rasen MP Edward Leigh claimed 3,337.09.

Tory MP Edward Leigh's claim was sixth highest on a countrywide list of 340 MPs compiled by the Sunday Mirror.

Louth MP Sir Peter Tapsell, the longest serving member of the Commons, claimed nothing while Cleethorpes MP Martin Vickers claimed £265.08.

Together, the 340 politicans had second home heating expenses of around £200,000.

Dave Prentis, whose UNISON union represents 1.3million public service workers, told the national paper: "It's disgraceful that well-paid MPs should make these claims as thousands of families are struggling to pay to turn the oven on to cook dinner.

"These are the same hypocritical MPs who have failed to get a grip on soaring fuel and energy costs, rising food bills and pay freezes.

"But in the end it's a moral decision down to them and their consciences."

Should MPs be allowed to claim costs of heating their second homes?

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