22/05/2009

MPs' expenses system

Since I was first elected for the City of Durham constituency in 2005, I have always placed the full details of my Parliamentary allowances and expenses on my website for anyone to read.

The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) is the independent organisation that is now administering the system of paying MPs' expenses.

As they have a searchable website with full details of MPs' expenses which can be accessed here, it is no longer necessary to place expenses details on this website.

If any constituent has any questions about MPs' allowances or would like further explanation then please do get in touch.

20/05/2009

PM congratulates Durham on MP's successful free school meals scheme

Roberta Blackman-Woods MP (City of Durham) used her question to the Prime Minister in the House of Commons today to raise the issue of free school meals.  Durham County Council bid to be one of the pilot areas for the Government's universal free school meals scheme, and it was supported by all the County Durham MPs.  Roberta, along with fellow North East MP, Sharon Hodgson, fought a campaign in parliament for pilot schemes to be established.  The PM spoke about the importance of nutritious school meals to children's development; an issue which Roberta herself raised as one of the vital reasons for establishing the pilots.
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20/05/2009

MP's lap dance law change finally passed by the Commons

The Policing and Crime Bill last night (Wednesday 19 May 2009) received its third reading, which is its final stage, in the House of Commons.  The Bill contains provisions to change the law on the licensing of lap dance clubs, which Roberta has been campaigning for.
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