Many people are interested in how MPs manage their accommodation and travel needs under the new system. Here is how I do it:

Accomodation: I live in Wirral, except when I am required to be in London to attend Parliament. I do not make any claims for my accommodation in Wirral. The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) provides money for a flat to rent, and associated utility bills, for me and my family to live in when I am in London.

Travel: I travel by Virgin Trains to London each week when the House is sitting. Under the current rules I am entitled to the cost of a standard open ticket. When purchasing tickets which will be claimed I have regard to the most cost effective way to travel. Where advance purchases allow me to take advantage of first class tickets for lower than the standard open fare, I may opt for this choice so as to allow me to work online on board Virgin trains. However if I need flexibility in travel time I will either purchase a peak or off peak standard ticket. My staff may also need to claim for travel costs if they have to work somewhere other than their usual work location.

Food: I do not claim for personal food items.

The expenses I have claimed are published by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority on their website.

Register of Member’s Financial Interests

The Register of Members’ Financial Interests is “to provide information of any financial interest or other material benefit which an MP receives which might reasonably be thought by others to influence his or her actions, speeches or votes in Parliament, or actions taken in his or her capacity as a Member of Parliament.”

My declaration of interests is available to view on the Parliament website.