We are all saddened, disappointed and angered by what has happened in Westminster over MPs’ expenses.
People across the length and breadth of Britain are rightly furious about the excessive and outrageous claims made by some MPs over recent years. Hundreds of people in Telford have been telling me on the doorstep how let down and disillusioned they feel with politicians.
And, they are right to be angry about the way MPs have abused their expenses.
I’m angry too. So many MPs – from all the parties – have abused our trust.
I know full well that if I am going to ask people to support me at the next General Election, I need to win their trust and prove to them that I am worthy of their vote.
The matter that I have found most distasteful is when some MPs have attempted to justify their actions by saying that they were acting within the rules. This is not acceptable. In the world outside the House of Commons, it is very clear to everyone what is right and what is wrong.
I have never been an MP. But if I am elected at the General Election, I want the people of Telford to know that I will not play the system, I will not bend the rules, and I will not break the law. Instead, I will publish the details of my personal expenses and I will abide by the standards that people expect of me.
I know that for many people, voting Conservative is a big thing to ask. I hope my campaign will show that the Conservative Party is on the side of the many, and that we have the ideas and the team to lead Britain.
Come the General Election I hope you will take the opportunity to elect a strong, local voice for Telford to stand up for you in Parliament – and show Gordon Brown that it’s time for change.
TOM BIGGINS
Parliamentary Candidate for Telford
