Valiant effort to fend off criticism of MPS’ conduct

Whatever you think of the wave of largely disputed allegations crashing over Westminster, there is no denying that it is something of a distraction from other important issues the government is facing.

All the time being spent by politicians and the government issuing energysapping statements and denials is time not spent on arguably more important things.

It reminds Off The Record of the expenses scandal which blew the government off course for months, although arguably the affair led to longoverdue reforms and greater transparency.

The veteran Kent Conservative MP Sir Roger Gale has been making valiant efforts to fend off criticisms of the conduct of MPS.

He took to the airwaves to reproach those for adopting a “guilty until proved innocent” stance in their reporting.

Lives were being ruined he said. “We are not treating them as allegations. We are treating them as fact.” Although the frequency with which the words “allegations” and “claims” crop up - along with emphatic denials from those in the spotlight does indicate a degree of caution on the part of the media.

John Major, the former PM who will be remembered for inventing the phrase “back to basics” has called for an end to slogan politics. He argues that government by soundbite is debilitating for sensible debate. He is right but the message did not reach Theresa May in time for her own soundbite - “strong and stable leadership” - to rebound on her within a matter of days.

Off The Record has been asked many times what it is about Kent and politicians. So far three of the county’s MPS have been caught up in the latest saga - the biggest casualty to date being the Sevenoaks MP Michael Fallon. Maybe it is something in the water.

Follow Paul on Twitter at @ Paulonpolitics for all Kent’s political news and gossip.