The Democracy Trust

MPs' Allowances

STANDARDS NINE YEARS TOO LATE ?

Nine years before the MPs expenses/allowances revelations were revealed by the Daily Telegraph the Democracy Trust had concerns related to some MPs commitment to the seven principles of public life. (more information)

In December 2000 we produced a citizen focussed code of conduct for MPs in consultation with the, then Independent MP for Tatton - Martin Bell OBE.

In January 2001 the code was presented to all 659 MPs in Parliament, to Members of the House Of Lords and the media, Universities etc.

Only 26 MPs signed/endorsed the code that year. It would appear (in 2009) that some MPs within the remaining 633 who declined to endorse the code had reasons not to welcome public scrutiny of their expense and allowances.

BY PARTY – MPs who endorsed the code in 2001:

19 Labour Party
5 Liberal Democrats
1 Conservative
1 Independent