This is Bernard Jenkin, Tory MP for North Essex.
Sir Thomas Legg has requested Mr Jenkin return the sum of £63,250 which he claimed for a second home allowance. The second home was a farmhouse which he rented from his sister-in-law from 2004.
The former shadow defence secretary insists the Commons Fees Office sanctioned the arrangement but failed to inform him when payments to relatives were outlawed in 2006.
Nonetheless, Sir Thomas has told him to replay the full five years' rent and Mr Jenkin said he will pay back whatever is finally recommended at the end of the process.
Why on earth would an MP need a farmhouse at a rent of £1000 a month? Perhaps because of his hobby he feels it necessary to be away from prying eyes.
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