Paul Murphy (British Politician) - Parliamentary Expenses

Parliamentary Expenses

Murphy was subject to criticism over his expenses claims, revealed by the Daily Telegraph during the United Kingdom Parliamentary expenses scandal. Most notable of these was his £3,419.25 claim to have a new boiler installed in his Westminster house, stating that the previous one was a hazard as "The hot water was far too hot". Other claims submitted by Paul Murphy relate to purchases of a Toilet Roll holder, new carpeting and a television, as well as mortgage payments and stamp duty. Although, his expenses were not accurately reflected by newspapers, his total expense claim per year, was much lower than the majority of MPs. This was further proved by the fact he had to pay no money back after further analysis of his claims. He was, and still is, highly regarded as an MP across the parties and was approached to stand for speaker, although he refused to carry this forward. Murphy has now been ordered to repay some of the money he "claimed" back. He has to pay back £2,237.72 in cleaning costs, mortgage payments and a wardrobe that exceeded the guideline price.