Thanks to ‘TV Highlights’ for this article in relation to MP’s expenses. Ed
Unwelcome publicity this evening for Andrew Turner when Channel 4 broadcasts an investigation into MPs who claim rent on their expenses for second homes while simultaneously letting out property nearby.
He is one of 32 MPs from 650 in the House of Commons making claims which will be highlighted in the programme ‘Dispatches — MPs: Are They Still At It?’ at 8pm.
Criticised by constituents
Mr Turner, 59, who has been the Island’s Tory MP for 11 years, has already been heavily criticised by constituents for taking advantage of the loophole.
Concerns were also raised by the Isle of Wight Conservative Association.
Mr Turner, with his partner, Carole Dennett, owns three properties – his constituency home in Newport, a flat in Cowes and a one-bedroom flat in Kennington, London*, which was his ‘first home’ for ten years. Ms Dennett also owns two other properties on the mainland.
Exploiting loophole denied
Following the MPs’ expenses scandal the rules were changed and Mr Turner has denied exploiting a loophole to own one flat in London while renting another at taxpayers’ expense.
In a statement he said he has not profited from the leasing the Kennington flat as costs such as ground rent, maintenance and agency fees paid since the 2010 election had actually exceeded the income by more than £11,000. And when he does sell, it will be subject to capital gains tax.
Mr Turner also emphasised that he had not taken advantage of MPs’ trips abroad, first-class rail travel and, unlike other MPs, he supplied receipts for claims put through his office petty cash.
*A check this morning with an online property guide, shows two flats for sale in Kennington for £150,000 but the majority are £200,000-plus.
Image: © IslandMP
