Phil Woolas MP talks about the allowances that pay for his office and staff

 

None of this money goes to the MP personally.

 

I think it is important for an MP to give a first class local service to people who need help – especially in a place like Oldham East and Saddleworth where there is a lot to do. It is also important the time I spend on my role as a government minister does not mean local people are neglected. That is why I have chosen to ensure we invest fully in my work for the community.

 

The main items paid for by these allowances are:

 

• Administrative and office expenditure like renting an office and paying for office equipment like telephones and computers. I have an office in the centre of Oldham and also pay to run surgeries in local centres throughout our large constituency.
• The costs of employing staff to help me provide an effective service to the local community – especially people who need my help.
• Travel costs – particularly the cost of travelling to and from London each week. My wife and sons can also claim for a limited number of journeys between Oldham and London to help us have some time together as a family.
• Limited costs of sending information to constituents. For example, I produce a newsletter, “Parliamentary News”, that goes to every home.