MPs protest over extra cash allowance

Conservative MP Adam Afriyie and fellow MPs spoke out against new expenses rules that will allow MPs to claim thousands of pounds extra to spend on children, travel, staff and accommodation.

While the rest of the country face tax increases, child benefits reductions and job losses, extra money was being given to MPs who are parents so that they can claim up to £2,500 in accommodation for each child up to the age of 18.

The new rules would mean that MPs whose seats are within an hour of London can claim an extra £15,000, because it is hard for them to get home outside peak time.

But the allowances are being seen as a "hidden pay rise" after a salary freeze was agreed last Monday.

Windsor MP Adam Afriyie who has led calls for a cheaper and simpler system, said: "It beggars belief that Ipsa would introduce a special new payment for MPs with children which is unavailable to constituents, and at a time when child tax credit is being cut."