Expenses

Whatever happens with expenses in Parliament, we all know that it's a drop in the ocean compared to European MEP's expenses, don't we?

At least...that's the reason that many will give for not voting in the upcoming European Elections.

Well it's not the case. Not for Conservative MEP's anyway. All Conservative MEP's elected this June have agreed to sign up to a pledge. David Cameron said:

“This pledge sets out new standards of ethical behaviour and clear rules.

“One – Conservative MEPs will publish online a breakdown of all office costs, signed off by a certified accountant.

“Two – they will publish online details of all travel: to Brussels, to Strasbourg , to any other country.

“Three – they will publish the names of each member of staff they employ.

“Four – they will publish details of all meetings with lobbyists and interest groups.

“And five – all of the above will be subject to examination by a scrutiny panel.

“In Brussels, just as in Westminster, transparency is the first essential step in cleaning up politics and it is the first big change that Conservative MEPs will make.

Again, Cameron has showed that you don't need to hide behind "It's all in the rules" - it's possible for any party to take a stand and be open and honest.

When you see UKIP, Libertas, BNP and Jury Team on the ballot paper - can you be sure that they'll follow this pledge too?