The Liberal Democrats will vote against proposals to exempt MPs from revealing full details of their expenses.
In a press release sent on Friday, the Liberal Democrat Shadow Leader of the House, David Heath said: “Ministers have got themselves into a tangled and expensive mess. Had they published expenses in the terms they now suggest three years ago, it would have been seen as a bold move towards greater transparency.
“Now, whatever the practical merits, many will still see these proposals, fairly or unfairly as a shabby retreat.
“Although this is not a matter for a whipped vote, Nick Clegg and I have taken a consistent and clear line on the application of the Freedom of Information Act. It must apply to Members of Parliament just as it applies to anyone else in public life. We shouldn’t be seeking exemptions and special treatment just because it may be inconvenient.
“The public will not easily understand why it should be that the way we use public money should be kept secret. I will certainly be recommending that colleagues vote against the proposal to exempt Parliament.”
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