Report reveals details of MP's repayments

THE report into MPs expenses has revealed that only one local Member of Parliament was ordered to make repayments following the expenses scandal.

Sir Thomas Legg audited MPs’ expenses claims between 2004 and 2008. His report, published last week, reveals that of the three DUP politicians who represent areas of Newtownabbey, only South Antrim MP William McCrea had to make expenses claim repayments.

According to the report, Dr McCrea was overpaid 661.21 for mortgage interest in 2008/09, and received 139.50 twice for a TV licence that same year. He was also paid 4,694.12 for bedroom furniture in 2006, exceeding the guideline price for such items by 3,154.12. He was further overpaid a total of 496.12 for service charges in 2008/09. The total recommended repayment was 4,450.95.

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It is understood that Dr McCrea, who didn’t appeal the figure, has actually repaid a total of 5,329.74 since April last year.

The report confirms that North Belfast MP Nigel Dodds and East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson had no issues surrounding their expenses.