North East peers defend their expenses claims

Dec 23 2009 by William Green, The Journal

PEERS from the region claimed more than £400,000 in expenses in one year, according to Parliamentary figures.

Members of the Lords defended the claims – made between April 2008 and March this year – but acknowledged public anger over expenses of Parliamentarians.

Peers are not paid a salary, but receive financial support through expenses. They cover office, travel and accommodation costs in London as well as a daily allowance, although the system is now being overhauled.

Lord Foster of Bishop Auckland, whose main address is registered as being in Tyne and Wear, claimed £65,804.

The lion’s share was made up by £30,534 claimed for overnight subsistence for staying in London to attend Parliament.

Lord Foster – former Labour chief whip and MP for Bishop Auckland – attended 145 of the 147 sitting days of the second chamber in 2008-09, claiming day subsistence of £12,319. Other claims related to travel and office costs, although he could not be reached yesterday for a comment.

Northumberland peer Lord Redesdale attended 146 sitting days, claiming £24,438 in overnight allowance and £12,175 in day subsistence. The Liberal Democrat’s overall claims came to £57,605.