David Ruffley MP has this week contacted the Sir Christopher Kelly, Chairman on the Commission of Standards in Public Life about MPs' expenses following a survey run on www.telldavidruffley.com seeking views on how MPs' expenses can be reformed.

Sir Christopher Kelly

Chairman of the Committee on Standards in Public Life

35 Great Smith Street

London

SW1P 3BQ

4th June 2009

Dear Sir Christopher,

On the 31st March 2009 you announced that you would begin immediately a review of Members' expenses and allowances. In response to this I wish to make the following submission of views of members of the public who have responded to an internet questionnaire that I have conducted about your review.

I conducted a poll on a survey website www.telldavidruffley.com between the 22nd May 2009 and June 4th. It asked eight questions specifically about the ACA. I fully acknowledge that this cannot be treated as scientific. But it is at least some evidence from those members of the public who have been good enough to respond to my online questionnaire.

I received 128 responses and reproduce the findings to the specific questions posed below.

How do you think MP's second home allowance should be reformed?

1. The second home allowance should be completely scrapped. MPs should not be given any public money for a second home.

Yes - 72.0%

No - 27.9%

2. MPs should not be allowed to change which of their homes is their main or second home.

Yes - 74.40%

No - 25.50%

3. The second home allowance should be scrapped and the Parliamentary authorities should construct a block of flats that MPs can stay in if they need to

Yes - 61.20%

No - 38.70%

4. MPs should be given a daily allowance based on their attendance in the House of Commons.

Yes - 49.60%

No - 50.30%

5. MPs should be given a higher salary and expected to fund their accommodation out of that.

Yes - 31.00%

No - 68.90%

6. The second home allowance should be significantly restricted so that it is restricted to paying for rent for a second home in London and basic furniture.

Yes - 68.90%

No - 31.00%

7. The second home allowance should be significantly reduced with a lower monthly 'cap' on the maximum amount MPs can claim for a second home.

Yes- 66.60%

No- 33.30%

8. Should MPs be allowed to claim for basic maintenance of their second home?

Yes - 24.0%

No - 75.9%

I hope that this may be of some use in your review. I look forward to the rapid conclusion of your review so that a new robust system can be put in place as soon as possible.

Many of my constituents have made it clear they expect very serious reform of the completely discredited allowances system. Urgent action is required and must be delivered.

David Ruffley MP