A Block Of Flats
Instead of letting MPs claim money to have a second home in London, it has now been suggested that we buy them a block of flats to use instead:
Buying accommodation rather than refunding MPs for the costs of mortgages or renting a second home would be more transparent, the House of Commons members estimate committee said.
MPs can currently claim more than £23,000 towards the cost of a second home. (The Telegraph)
Buying a block of flats or hotel for MPs is not a good idea. The Westminster village is insular and incestuous enough as it is, without hemming them in together at all times during the working week. MPs need to experience real life as much as possible, and this sort of proposal - even excluding the physical impracticalities - will just make MPs even less connected with the rest of us than already.
Rather than this idea, why not just cut the amount that MPs will be given towards a second home to the average mortgage payment or rent nationwide? If they want nicer accommodation than that will pay for as a second home, they can pay it themselves from their not-inconsiderable salaries.
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