Revealed: my personal expenses

By James Alexander

MPs’ expenses is an issue that will not go away. People’s memories are long and rather than just attacking expenses cheats and encouraging retaliation against party colleagues, or hoping the issue will go away, the next generation of Labour politicians should do something positive on the matter.

Today I have published a full-page, colour advert in my local paper setting out a contract with the voters of my constituency. The advert was personally designed and paid for by me. I took advantage of a special offer and some savings. Such action can show the public that we are not all the same and hopefully restore some confidence in our political process.

Only a few weeks ago, a resident in Don Avenue told me she would not be voting for anyone anymore because of expense claims. As a candidate this is very disheartening. She thought I had a second home and that I was living the life of Riley off the taxpayer. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The current expenses situation does not help a new generation of politicians like me who are standing for office for the right reasons. We are tainted by the sins of the father.

None of the pledges in this contract are new. Amongst other publications, I have already made these pledges on Progress online, in Total Politics magazine and in my local paper. However, this advert brings focus and positivity to the issue.

Publication of the advert is accompanied by thousands of printed copies being delivered to residents of York Outer. Have I wasted my time and my own money? Time will tell.

Visit James’ website at www.time-4-change.org.uk.