AMs' expenses made public

3:10pm Sunday 17th August 2008

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Welsh Conservatives have published details of expenses claims made by Assembly Members to cover the cost of living and working in Cardiff.

They show that Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire AM Angela Burns claimed £10,550 last year, while Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies claimed £9,168.

AMs from constituencies outside the Cardiff/ Newport area could claim a maximum of £12,500, while those living close to Cardiff were entitled to £4,100. From April 1st the figure rose to £13,000.

Opposition leader Nick Bourne, whose claim was £12,399, used the opportunity to challenge other parties to publish claims.

Mrs Burns’ claim breaks down into £3,805 in second home rental, £3,769 for second home goods and furnishings, £1,738 for overnight stays in hotels while on Assembly business, £504 for council tax, £667 for meals and subsistence and the balance for hotel parking and newspapers and magazines.

Mr Davies’ claim was made for £6,750 rental, £1,073 for hotels, £443 for utilities, maintenance and repairs and £901 for council tax.