Royal Mint chief claims for 45p tissues

 A Royal Mint executive ran up a £45,000 expenses bill, which included a 50p packet of chewing gum and a 45p packet of tissues, it has emerged.

A freedom of information request by The Sunday Times showed that Chris Howard, the director of bullion at the government-owned Royal Mint, spent £15,000 last year staying in some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and £8,700 on entertaining business contacts and staff.

A spokesman for Royal Mint said its travel policy allowed £5 a day for expenses incurred, and £10 if staying abroad.