Rochdale MP defends £198k expenses claims

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Simon Danczuk was elected to Parliament in 2010 Credit: PA

Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk has cited a high casework load and having a young family as reasons for claiming almost £200,000 in Parliamentary expenses last year.

The Labour MP, who was elected in 2010, is the fifth most expensive Member of Parliament after claiming £198,770.05 in 2012/13.

The figure includes £26,939 on accommodation and £1,095.16 on food.

Responding to the report by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, Mr Danczuk said:

“We run an extensive operation with a very big casework load and I think the people of Rochdale will agree that I give good value for money. Unlike the majority of MPs I have a very young family and this is why my London accommodation costs are higher.”

Also among the highest spenders in the North West include Labour MP for Sefton Bill Esterson (14th - £190,705.75), Wirral South Labour MP Alison McGovern (15th - £190,159.16) and Liberal Democrat MP for Burnley Gordon Birtwistle (18th - £189,356.96).