Agreed Keith, but the point I am sure we all agree on is that when anyone takes on a job as councillor or MP it shouldn't cost you.
I have a lot of sympathy with many of the claims made and none for the extravagant ones. When you run a business - or a country there is a need for expenses. small numbers become silly if we have to account for every penny as we would spend so long watching our backs and doing the sums that it would detract from the job.
Unfortunately we are now on a witch hunt and sensible provision goes out the window. I want people running this country to be moral and considerate but I dont want them to be scared to make decisions that are unpopular.
I regret that much of the recent hype will turn off those good candidates who wonder why they put up with the harrassment.
But its the world we have created......
