Leominster MP in Daily Telegraph scoop (From Hereford Times)

Leominster MP in Daily Telegraph scoop

9:25am Thursday 21st May 2009

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LEOMINSTER MP Bill Wiggin is “surprised and upset” to see himself accused of claiming a phantom mortgage this morning as the revelations about parliamentary expenses continue.

Interviewed by the Hereford Times on Monday, Mr Wiggin said he was confident his expenses would stand up to scrutiny and called a public meeting in Leominster for constituents to quiz him on the claims.

Speaking ahead of releasing a full statement later today (Thursday) Mr Wiggin, a Tory whip, said the accusations arose out of an “administrative error” and that he had, in fact, not been claiming any public money he shouldn’t have.

The MP said he had the support of Tory leader David Cameron in saying that the situation arose of an administrative error around mortgage claim forms that were filled out wrongly.

“I received a letter outlining a series of accusations against me yesterday. This is embarrassing and unpleasant, and I accept that it will upset my constituents - but I maintain that I had no idea these accusations were going to be made,” said Mr Wiggin.

The MP left a message with the Hereford Times late last night to say he was about to feature prominently in the expenses revelations. He says his planned public meeting at the Rankin Club, Corn Square, Leominster, next Wednesday (May 27) where constituents can quiz him on his expenses - is still going ahead.

“They can come and ask me about the mortgage claim, it was a mistake,” said Mr Wiggin.

• The Daily Telegraph is thought to have paid £300,000 for a disk containing politicians’ expenses.

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