Support for criticised MP (From Western Telegraph)

Support for criticised MP

12:30pm Friday 26th June 2009 in

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Dear editor

I have been following the regular disclosures regarding MPs’ expenses, and I was of course disappointed to see Stephen Crabb’s name even mentioned.

I attended the meeting at the Picton Centre, and was satisfied with everything that Stephen Crabb said during the meeting. He clearly realised that, with the benefit of hindsight, he made a mistake in ‘flipping' his homes. However, I do not believe that he should immediately be tarred with a brush that labels him as dishonest or corrupt.

Some MPs’ claims have been ridiculous. Some have been extravagant, claiming the maximum possible every year, while others have been obsessive, claiming for everything down to rubber ducks.

Many MP's do not understand what they have done wrong. However, I do not count Stephen Crabb among these. He followed poor advice and made an error of judgement. It hardly shows a systemic abuse of or playing of the system. If he was either of those things, he would not still be an MP, as David Cameron has fired those offenders.

I would ask all those who are leaping to criticise Stephen Crabb — have you never made a mistake? If you had been in his position and you had been advised that re-designating your second home was a sensible option, and that it would also help you financially, would you not have done it?

I will certainly be voting for Stephen Crabb at the next election. I am impressed by his voting record, and by his work on behalf of the constituents of Pembrokeshire.

That is what an MP is elected for, and I cannot imagine having a better MP than Stephen Crabb to represent us in the next parliament.

Pete Killingley,
1 Spring Gardens,
Spittal.