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Expenses: it's not over yet, says MP
THE expenses issue has not ended yet, according to High Peak MP Tom Levitt.
This week, in an interview with the Buxton Advertiser, Mr Levitt admitted that the scandal has damaged democracy and Parliament.
In what has been a tumultuous few weeks, Mr Levitt agreed to repay 389 after being contacted by Sir Thomas Legg – the independent auditor who has investigated expenses claims made by all MPs.
In addition, Mr Levitt denied being involved in "something underhand" when it came to selling a flat in London.
According to Mr Levitt, although capital gains tax had not been paid on the sale, he followed procedures approved by the Inland Revenue and the fees office "in a legal and transparent way, within the rules".
Mr Levitt said: "The expenses scandal has damaged democracy, Parliament and sitting MPs who are, of course, mostly Labour.
"That's particularly damaging to us, as people have come to expect more of Labour MPs following sleaze scandals involving the Conservatives in the 1990s.
"I was shocked about some of the revelations that came out earlier in the summer.
"We've had weak rules, poorly enforced, for too long."
Mr Levitt added: "The issue won't be over until we've put the House in order and have rules that people – and not just MPs – understand and approve of.
"I hope the outcome's reached as soon as possible."
On November 4, Sir Christopher Kelly – who has been asked to suggest reforms to the expenses system – is expected to announce that relatives cannot be employed by MPs.
This could affect Mr Levitt's wife Teresa, who works part-time for the MP.
Mr Levitt said: "MPs are going to have to bite the bullet and accept the recommendations from Sir Christopher."
Councillor Anthony McKeown – who is a member of High Peak Labour Party – has questioned the way in which the expenses scandal has been handled by Mr Levitt.
According to Cllr McKeown, Mr Levitt should be open and publish the letter from Sir Thomas.
However, Mr Levitt said the letter was "private".
He added: "I've been very open with (Labour) members who've had several opportunities to question me.
"I'm very pleased to have their support."
He added: "We're aware that by keeping High Peak Labour we'll be stopping the Conservatives from imposing swingeing cuts on public services, as they always have done in government."
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Weather for Buxton
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: -3 C to 0 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Light sleet
Temperature: 1 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 8 mph
Wind direction: South west
