Labour MP’s expenses: 20p for every mile he rode bike!

A LABOUR MP has been charging the taxpayer 20p in expenses for every mile he cycles around his constituency.

Matt Western saddled the public with an 80p bill for four short trips in recent months.

In total, the 56-year-old has claimed £8.60 for cycling 43 miles over 19 official trips in his Warwick and Leamington constituency, The Sun reported.

One MP said: ‘Your legs may hurt a bit after going for a bike ride, but it’s not like putting petrol in your car.’

However, Mr Western said: ‘It’s important to send a signal out that you’re using a bike. It’s a paltry sum but it is better to encourage MPs to use their bicycles. It’s good for your health and the environment. It helps reduce congestion and it’s quicker. You don’t have to worry about parking, either.’

Details of his claims emerged days after the tenth anniversary of the expenses scandal that rocked Westminster.

Mr Western is not suspected of any wrongdoing. His claims were paid in line with the rules of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, which was set up in the wake of the furore in 2009.