Say sorry over expenses slur, insists ex-MP
A FORMER Strathkelvin and Bearsden MP has demanded a "full written apology" after being dragged into the Parliamentary expenses scandal.
Last week 390 MPs, constituting more than half of the House of Commons, were asked to make repayments totalling over 1.1m.
Scottish MPs were responsible for more than 107,000 of the total following a highly critical report by Sir Thomas Legg.
John Lyons, who served as MP for Strathkelvin and Bearsden from 2001-2005, has been told to pay back 18,700 – the largest amount in Scotland – which he claimed in mortgage interest payments.
The repayment demands came after inquiry officers were apparently unable to contact Mr Lyons, who has dismissed the claims as "nonsense".
He said: "I was shocked to hear Legg's accusation on local radio last Thursday.
"On hearing this I immediately contacted the inquiry team to demand an explanation and an urgent meeting to rectify their mistake.
"I am pleased that they have now admitted that all letters in relation to this were sent to an old address – despite the fact that I regularly receive correspondence from the House Authorities to my proper address.
"I am particularly angered that they continued to publish their decision knowing full well that I had not been given the chance to reply as mail had been returned to the inquiry team indicating 'not at this address'.
"I meet with the Legg inquiry team in the next week to resolve this matter which I could have done months ago had I been properly informed.
"I have also demanded a full written apology from Sir Thomas Legg for the undoubted damage to my reputation his action has caused."
Meanwhile, Rosemary McKenna, the MP for Cumbernauld, Kilsyth and Kirkintilloch East, was found to have been overpaid by a total of 3,008.93 for rent – a figure she has since reimbursed in full.
There was better news for East Dunbartonshire MP Jo Swinson, who was amongst those who were not asked to repay any cash.
Tom Clarke, MP for Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill, was also given a clean bill of health.
Ms Swinson said: "I welcome the publication of Sir Thomas Legg's report and I am pleased that he has found that my expenses are all in order, however, the important thing now is to press on and reform the expenses system."
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Sunday 05 February 2012
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