My pledge and commitment to public disclosure

The Expenses scandal caused enormous damage to the reputation of politicians. I believe current MPs must strive to restore trust in Parliament and our democracy. This includes being open and honest about my expenses and the reasons for claiming them.

So I am pleased that IPSA (the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority) will be publishing details of all MPs expenses every two months on their website. I fully support this openness and transparency and the opportunity it gives constituents to have access to the details of how I spend public funds. Visit http://www.parliamentary-standards.org.uk/ to access the published expenses claims as published by IPSA.

Since the General Election in 2010 IPSA http://www.ipsa-home.org.uk/ has the responsibility for setting the rules and administering the allowances associated with the work of MPs including the payment of MPs and staff salaries. IPSA is entirely independent of Parliament, Government and all political parties.

My arrangements and allowances as MP for Leeds West

MPs have expenses and allowances to enable them do their job. Before any claim is paid, they must have an invoice or receipt, and it is thoroughly checked by IPSA. I always apply the principle of best value to all decisions I make which involve the use of public money.

My salary

I am paid an annual salary of £65,738. There is more information about MPs pay at http://www.parliament.uk/about/mps-and-lords/members/pay-mps/ I do not receive any additional remuneration for any of the extra responsibilities that I have taken on in Parliament (Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury).

My constituency office

My constituency office at Unit 10, Armley Park Court, Stanningley Road, Leeds, LS12 2AE is staffed five days a week, with a short shutdown between Christmas and New Year. Through IPSA I claim expenses to pay for the running of my office. The expenses pay for the office rent, for service charges, business rates, utilities (gas, electricity and water), telephone and broadband rental and call costs, insurance, and room hire for surgeries etc. They also pay suppliers and shops for things like furniture, stationery, paper, printer toners, office equipment, cleaning and cleaning materials. In short, they pay for the things that allow me to run an effective office.

My staff

My staff team comprises 5 people, three full time and two part time. The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) has approved the job descriptions and contractual arrangements of all members of my staff. All staff are paid salaries within the IPSA recommended salary bands according to their job role, qualifications and experience.

My travel

My rail travel is predominantly between Leeds and Westminster, whilst my car mileage claims relate to my work within the constituency and very occasionally a Leeds to Westminster journey.

My accommodation

My home is in Leeds, I do not claim any expenses in relation to this house because the costs do not relate to me being an MP. I rent a flat in London and claim expenses for my share of the rent and bills.