McGrady defends £17,000 spend

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SDLP MP Eddie McGrady has defended spending £17,000 on hotels in London as part of his parliamentary expenses.

The Daily Telegraph reported that the South Down MP claimed for accommodation in top London hotels.

He also tried to charge for laundry, food and telephone bills for £2,500. That claim was rejected.

Mr McGrady said his hotel bill was over four years. He said he did not own or rent a second home and his claims were a fraction of the amount permissible.

The claim for food, and laundry and telephone bills which totalled £2,572 was a genuine mistake. This amount was never paid, he said.

"The SDLP is committed to openness and transparency surrounding MPs expenses and support planned overhauls of the entire system which will be outlined in more detail in the party's submission to the Kelly review," Mr McGrady said.

The Daily Telegraph has also reported that the DUP MP Nigel Dodds has claimed nearly £90,000 in second home allowance over the last four years.

His claims reportedly include nearly £1,000 for seven tables and £300 for picture framing.