In 2009­­­ the UK was rocked by­­­­­ a gigantic scandal involving MPs’ expense claims.

MPs from all Parties were caught up in it. Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat, Ulster Unionist, Sinn Fein, the Scottish National Party and others. Here is the full list from the BBC.

A number of people have asked about my Wikipedia entry which shows me repaying the House of Commons £2,620.

Back then, the House of Commons authorities made available an “Additional Costs Allowance” which was designed to offset the costs of having a second home. For most MPs this meant a place in London. But it was also possible to claim expenses for running a home in the riding – if that was the designated second home.

The rules were opaque and open to interpretation which explains why so many MPs were caught up in the scandal.

The Prime Minister at the time, Gordon Brown, who ordered the audit of expenses, repaid £12,888. A future Prime Minister, David Cameron, repaid £237. A former Leader of the Conservative Opposition, Michael Howard, repaid £7,039. Two Deputy Speakers of the House, Sir Alan Hazelhurst and Sir Michael Lord repaid £11,679 and £5,074 respectively. A future Commons Speaker, John Bercow, repaid £978.

Others who made claims passed the (then) rules of the House. The former Prime Minister, Tony Blair, claimed £6,990 for roof repairs to his constituency home. 

The whole thing was a complete mess and when the press published details the entire country went into meltdown.

Those who made fraudulent claims were prosecuted and eight MPs and Peers were imprisoned.

It was at the time - and still is - a terrible blot on the reputation of the UK Parliament. But, since then, the rules have been clarified and made much more precise so there is no room for error.

Living through the expenses scandal obviously had an impact on me – and on the nation and the entire Parliamentary establishment.

As a result of its cauterising experience I am more than ever committed to total transparency - it benefits everyone. And for clear, detailed and precise rules when claiming public money.