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08/04/2009
Parties Unite To Slam MP's Expenses
The Ulster Unionists and SDLP have joined forces to attack the system for MPs claiming expenses.
They have said that it should be reviewed immediately.
Speaking as scrutiny of MPs' expenses intensified, UUP Deputy Leader Danny Kennedy said that the House of Commons' Committee on Standards in Public Life - which is planning a review into MPs' pay and allowances - should start that review now.
He said there was "growing public concern" at the level of MPs' expense claims and that confidence in politicians was suffering because of public anger at the perceived high salaries and expenses.
"In light of the growing public concern about the propriety of MPs' expenses and pay this review should start immediately."
Mr Kennedy also questioned the double, triple or quadruple mandates of some local politicians.
"Serious questions have to be asked about the amount double and triple jobbers are getting paid and whether the expenses they receive are appropriate," he said.
The SDLP Leader Mark Durkan said his party fully backed any review of MLAs' and MPs' expenses: "Expenses must be accountable and transparent. This is public money for public roles and it has to be justifiable."
See: 'Double-Jobbing' Salaries Top £4.7m
They have said that it should be reviewed immediately.
Speaking as scrutiny of MPs' expenses intensified, UUP Deputy Leader Danny Kennedy said that the House of Commons' Committee on Standards in Public Life - which is planning a review into MPs' pay and allowances - should start that review now.
He said there was "growing public concern" at the level of MPs' expense claims and that confidence in politicians was suffering because of public anger at the perceived high salaries and expenses.
"In light of the growing public concern about the propriety of MPs' expenses and pay this review should start immediately."
Mr Kennedy also questioned the double, triple or quadruple mandates of some local politicians.
"Serious questions have to be asked about the amount double and triple jobbers are getting paid and whether the expenses they receive are appropriate," he said.
The SDLP Leader Mark Durkan said his party fully backed any review of MLAs' and MPs' expenses: "Expenses must be accountable and transparent. This is public money for public roles and it has to be justifiable."
See: 'Double-Jobbing' Salaries Top £4.7m
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A cloudy day with outbreaks of mainly light rain at times, although there may be the odd heavier burst. Driest in the south and east during the afternoon. Moderate southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:Staying cloudy throughout the evening and overnight period with a little rain or drizzle at times. Mild overnight with light winds. Minimum temperature 7 °C.
