By Martin Banks - 17th March 2008
British political parties represented in parliament have been urged to have all their accounts audited.
The call comes in the wake of the row over a report by parliament’s internal auditor which is said to detail widespread abuse of MEP expenses.
Parliament’s bosses have so far resisted calls for the report to be published although some members, including UK Liberal Chris Davies, have pledged to again raise the issue after the Easter break.
Gary Titley, leader of of the delegation of UK Socialist MEPs, has now called on all British parties with MEPs to “follow Labour's lead in having all their accounts audited.”
Titley, who is due to step down in next year’s European elections, said: "I am calling on all political parties in parliament to ensure that there is no shadow of doubt over the probity of politicians dealing with tax payers' money."
The European Parliamentary Labour Party (EPLP) introduced a requirement in 2000 that all members have their office and staffing expenditure reviewed by an independent auditor who then submits a report to the EPLP.
That report must state that all tax, national insurance and pension contributions have been paid and that the expenditure incurred complies with parliament's rules. The auditors' report has to be presented to the EPLP by 31 March.
The EPLP has also written to Hans-Gert Poettering, president of parliament, to suggest the introduction of this audit system for all members of parliament.
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