Do MP's really need a second home allowance?

[Nicholas Wallwork]

The subject of MPs expenses and the controversial "second home allowance" has been in the headlines over the past few days, weeks and months!

Check our article "MP's second home expenses to be investigated" and see what you think...

All comments and opinions welcome....

 

[web2dude]

I think in all fairness, there are pros and cons to this argument. Some of the MPs do need to stay overnight in London, but I struggle to see why they should be able to finance the purchase of a second home funded by the taxpayer.

I think the problems arise when MPs are claiming full benefits (within the rules don't you know!) approved by other MPs, when in fact they are spending little time at the properties in question. Harriett Harmon a case in point. A very poor example to all and highlights how many MPs are on the make.

 

[Lysos]

Simple solution: after the 2012 Olympics allocate those MP's who can justify needing accommodation in the capital a flat in the Olympic village. Flats will already be paid for and owned effectively by the government, no allowances necessary. Alternatively, the govt builds a block of bedsits for them. The money saved in allowances would soon cover the building costs and ongoing running/maintenance costs.

 

[Nicholas Wallwork]

One of the problems is that while some MPs do abide by spirit of the regulations and the regulations themselves, others seem happy to push the boundaries to the limit. As with many things in life, the few who allegedly abuse a system spoil it for the rest.

 

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[travelguy]

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[Prop-erty]

Simple solution: after the 2012 Olympics allocate those MP's who can justify needing accommodation in the capital a flat in the Olympic village. Flats will already be paid for and owned effectively by the government, no allowances necessary. Alternatively, the govt builds a block of bedsits for them. The money saved in allowances would soon cover the building costs and ongoing running/maintenance costs.

ROFL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Gawd I needed a laugh after today's cancellations!

 

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[tmash]

I think MP's living in and around London must not claim second homes allowances because they commute from home and they should be paid slightly more money to cover the living costs for London. For those that come from further constituencies they can be allowed to claim travel and rental allowances to cover the period they are attending parliament .It would be unfair to provide flats for MP's to live in together as its not everyone's preference.

 

[nyebe]

having an home allowance is suitable to have low interest rate in buying a home.

 

[tmash]

having an home allowance is suitable to have low interest rate in buying a home.

What ever way is finally agreed , lets make sure that this does not discourage the right people from applying to be MPs .We need the best talent and this certainly does not come free.

 

[tmash]

From an investment point of view! what is better , giving MP accomodation allowance or giving them opportunity to buy a second home?.I think the later is better and cheaper than the former.It world be a wise idea to let the status quo be as it is but make adjustment in pensions and westminister after- life grants-Making a cut back in retirements allowances for MPs to compansate for the houses they have purchased under the second home scheme.The thing is there will always be a loophole in any system which people will use if they are not given an opportunity and fair payments of the work they deliver to the tax-payer.

 

[punitalemon]

Your City Office

Hi,
Some of the MPs do need to stay overnight in London.when MPs are claiming full
benefits then problems arise.