MPs expenses scandal claims another scalp
Today saw the resignation of Julie Kirkbride as the expenses scandal claimed both hers and her husband's political careers. Each has been accused of designating different homes as their second home allowing them to claim thousands of pounds from the expenses system for mortgage payments, furniture and other "essentials". While this had been on the cards for some time, after her husband resigned his position, many believe this is just the tip of the iceberg and many more resignations and fallen reputations will follow.
While there had been questions raised about the expenses for Julie McBride and her husband Andrew MacKay it was the court of public opinion which finally saw both of their downfalls. A furious voting public made clear their opinions at a recent constituency meeting, leaving the Conservative MPs with little option but to bid a fond farewell.
While nobody is yet sure, until the expenses have been released in full, how much MPs have taken from the expenses system over the last few years, it will no doubt be tens of millions of pounds. If Parliament thinks the situation is bad now we can only expected to get worse as official figures are released later this year showing all MPs expenses in their full glory.
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