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15 May 2009
Politicians all across the country have been squirming as their (often vastly and unfairly inflated) expenses come under microscopic scrutiny.
Some stand accused of frittering away taxpayers' money with all the regard of a child deciding which sweets to buy with their weekly pocket money.
Everything from dog food and nappies, to complete refurbishment of second homes, has been claimed for and it's not surprising that the revelations have made the public's blood boil, especially as the country is still floundering in the depths of a recession.
Politicians always crop up in the lists of 'least trusted professions' that are regularly compiled (along with, it has to be said, estate agents and journalists - although a quick look at reporters' expenses would tell a very different story from the one splashed all over the national papers) so it's reassuring to see MPs Nigel Waterson and Norman Baker haven't been featuring in the national headlines.
Both promise that there will be no lurid revelations to come and no money will have to be paid back. Local politicians are also coming under the spotlight, albeit not for financial reasons.
Bob Lacey, the chairman of East Sussex County Council, has stood down from seeking re-election. He sent out a campaign letter on county council headed notepaper - which should not have happened. Bob has done the right thing and fallen on his sword, but it's surprising that such an experienced politician made such a simple error.
He boasts 45 years in politics, including a spell at the London borough of Brent and a number of years as a borough councillor for Eastbourne. Anything that exacerbates the distrust that the average voter feels for politicians in general, whether local or national, is a great shame.
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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