Dean Russell takes a stance on MPs being allowed to expense Christmas party food and drink.

The Watford MP has said that neither he nor his team will be expensing their work festive gathering this year.

His response comes after the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), the parliamentary watchdog, said MPs could claim back costs for their Christmas parties.

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When Watford Observer asked if Mr Russell would be using this option, he said: “Absolutely not.

“My hard-working team will be having a Christmas lunch with me, which I am pleased to treat them too.”

The watchdog’s guidance said MPs could claim for food, non-alcoholic drinks, and decorations for an office event.

Watford Observer: The guidance said decorations could be expensed, but alcohol could not.The guidance said decorations could be expensed, but alcohol could not. (Image: Pixabay)

Mr Russell added: “I do not support this at all, and I do not know any member, across the political divide, who would use this. I think it's a very bad idea.”

Following the public outcry to IPSAs guidance, its chief executive Ian Todd said a few MPs had contacted him to make it clear they have never made any Christmas party claims and nor will they.  

He said: “We got the messaging wrong by allowing the impression to form that this is what MPs were wanting to do.” 

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