Esther, the Tories and more -- what do you want from your next MP?

Two weeks ago I launched my Better Politics Pledge: my straightforward promises on expenses and accountability if I was elected MP for Luton South.  I wrote to the other candidates and asked them if they would sign the pledge too -- so we have a clear common promise of high standards and can begin to lay this issue to rest.  

I'm very pleased to say Qurban Hussain (Lib Dem candidate) has signed up to my pledge and I applaud him for this.

I also heard back from Esther Rantzen and Nigel Huddlestone (the Tory candidate).  Both agreed that we need better conduct on expenses and accountability, but would not sign up to all my promises.  In particular, neither would commit to not having a second job.

Esther would continue with public appearances, broadcasting and work for ChildLine and the NSPCC.  I admire the work Esther has done for children and as a TV presenter.  Some of her continued work would benefit Luton, but being MP is a demanding role and I fear she might simply have too many competing commitments. 

Nigel has a pledge on expenses and accountability: I fully support it as it contains most of my promises.  On my stronger promise of not taking a second job, Nigel said he would do "at least 50 hours a week" as MP (the equivalent of 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday).  Nigel is campaigning on the issue of expenses and accountability and I think he is a serious candidate.  So I was surprised he wouldn't rule out having a second job and the amount of time he committed to is less than most MPs do in a week.  

In addition, neither Esther nor Nigel would commit to my pledge of having my only home in Luton South.  Nigel lives in Wheathampstead and would not move.  (He would also claim travel expenses for commuting to London while I would not.)  Esther would stay in North London and have a second home in Luton.

I think it is essential we hold our MPs to a high standard and discuss publicly what that standard should be.  I firmly believe it begins with a clear, firm, personal pledge.  There is more we need to do and I will be building on my Better Politics Pledge with more policies.  I would love to hear from you with their views -- email me at joe@joehallforluton.com 

More coming soon on what the parties' conference pledges mean for Luton!