All my expenses will be seen if I’m an MP (From Hereford Times)

All my expenses will be seen if I’m an MP

6:00pm Thursday 2nd July 2009

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IHAVE been outraged, as I’m sure most of your readers will have been by the continual barrage of MP expenses claims we have been treated to over the last few weeks – ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous.

A lot of people have asked for my opinion and indeed whether I claim any expenses currently.

Over two years ago I was fortunate to be elected as the Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate to succeed Paul Keetch MP. As a parliamentary candidate I receive neither a salary nor claim any expenses.

I hope I have demonstrated my commitment as I resigned my previous full-time paid job on selection which has allowed me to focus 100 per cent on campaigning for local people.

I would like to make it clear that if I should be fortunate enough to be elected as the MP for Hereford and South Herefordshire, I commit to fully publishing every single expense claim to allow constituents the chance to scrutinise how their money is spent.

There will be no claims for anything other than basic living costs whilst in London on parliamentary business.

My family home, which is in Hereford, will not be subject to a single claim.

In addition, I have made a commitment not to take any additional external positions or directorships that would benefit me financially.

If we are to build trust back in politicians again, then I believe this is the minimum that people can expect.

SARAH CARR, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate, Hereford and South Herefordshire, East Street, Hereford

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