Cycling fanatic Labour MP Matt Western claims 20p on expenses…for riding just a mile
A CYCLING fanatic Labour MP has claimed 20p on expenses for riding just a mile, we can reveal.
Matt Western has picked up 80p in taxpayers’ cash for four trips on constituency visits in recent months.
He listed a total of nineteen bike rides while on trips in Warwick and Leamington racking up a bill of £8.60.
Records show he recorded a trip of seven miles where he claimed £1.40 for riding his bike.
It comes as MPs are being asked by their expenses watchdog to track their movements to ensure mileage claims are accurate and prevent over-claiming.
Claims also show that ex-Cycling Minister Robert Goodwill made a claim in April 2012 for a journey through his Scarborough constituency for 80p.
They were paid in accordance with the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority set up in the wake of the expenses scandal.
MPs are allowed to spend taxpayers’ cash on accommodation, office costs and travel if connected to their official duties.
There is no suggestion of any wrongdoing from Mr Western who was first elected to the Commons in the 2017 snap election.
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But one outraged MP said: “Your legs may hurt a little bit after going for a bike ride but it’s not like putting petrol in your car.”
Mr Western last night said: “It’s important to send a signal out that you’re using a bike. It’s a paltry sum but better to encourage MPs to use their bicycles.
“I’m a keen cyclist. It’s good for your health and good for the environment which helps reduce congestion and it’s quicker and you don’t have to worry about parking.”
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