Peer defends £30,000 living costs
Former Wolverhampton MP Dennis Turner made one of the five highest claims for overnight expenses among the 738 members of the House of Lords, it has emerged.
Lord Bilston claimed more than £30,000 to cover living costs while in London in 2007-08.
Today he defended the claims, saying he was a consciencious member of the House who was present at the majority of votes.
"I am a working peer who attends the Lords throughout the year," said Lord Bilston. "That is the reason I made these claims.
"You have got the facts and I have no reaction to them. Why should I have to justify them?"
The Labour peer added: "What you should be doing is looking at the voting record for the House of Lords. As far as I am concerned, I have a very good record and am extremely proud of it. You should also check the late-night voting record. I am here whatever the time of the vote, day or night, and I am a very conscientious member of the Lords.
"If I did not attend and take part I would feel that I was not doing my duty. That is what is expected of me and it is the same approach that I have adopted throughout 42 years in public life."
Peers do not receive a salary, but can claim for expenses incurred as a result of their parliamentary work. This includes an overnight allowance of up to £174 if their "only or main residence" is outside London and their stay is "for the purpose of attending sittings of the House".
Peers may also claim up to £86.50 for subsistence costs and £75 for office costs for each day they attend parliament. Members are reimbursed for travel costs and all the allowances are tax-free. In 2007-08, members of the Lords claimed more than £6 million in overnight subsistence while the total expenses bill was £17.2m.
Lord Bilston, formerly Wolverhampton South East's Labour MP, has a third share of former council property in Kennington, south London that he jointly owns with Wolverhampton North East Labour MP Ken Purchase and Wolverhampton South West Labour MP Rob Marris.
It was bought in 2001 for £255,000 and is now believed to be worth around £450,000. MPs can claim second home allowances, but according to the official Reimbursement Allowance Scheme members of the Lords are only entitled to recover travel, subsistence and office costs incurred in connection with parliamentary duties.
Lord Bilston became a life peer in 2005 after stepping down as an MP, having represented Wolverhampton South East since 1987.
